The Alumni Association will help the University accomplish its three primary activities -research, teaching and community service - through participating in governance, acting as a vocal advocate and supporting fund-raising.

The Alumni Association will act as an agent for alumni involvement within the University, within the activities of the Association and in external activities representing the interests of the Alumni Association.

The Alumni Association will recognize the achievements of alumni, students and friends of McMaster University, and reward outstanding contributions to the Alumni Association.

The Alumni Association will provide products, services and benefits that renew and invigorate alumni affinity with the University.

The Alumni Association will undertake appropriate and timely communication with alumni to inform them of issues affecting the University and the Alumni Association, and to facilitate communications among alumni. The Alumni Association will initiate and pursue an appropriate and timely dialogue with senior officials and faculty of the University.

The Alumni Association will encourage current students to become involved in, and assist with activities of the Association to forge an early link with future graduands and it will encourage a lifelong association with the University primarily through the activities of the Student Relations Committee.

A few years after leaving with my Arts & Science degree in hand, I found myself as an entrepreneur, setting up a green business that aligned my employment goals with my personal values – and making a living! It was daunting and exciting, a ton of hard work and deeply rewarding. I am humbled by my good fortune that it worked! I have received a lot of accolades for REfficient and while I am certainly proud of it, it isn’t my success alone. There are many talented colleagues, mentors, friends and teachers who were there for me when I needed them to help with the next step in that journey. That is what I hope for today’s graduates and our recent alumni. That is also why I believe one the greatest resources we can offer through the MAA is connecting our young grads through mentorship and networking to our vast network of alumni.

I have enjoyed tremendously the consultations I’ve had through the McMaster Alumni Advisor Network. I’ve connected with recent grads considering an entrepreneurial path, having an interest in green industry or just needing another set of eyes on their resume. This online platform offers an incredible resource for students and grads to tap into the knowledge and experience of 1000+ alumni advisors. It’s a very rewarding experience to know your advice or tip has helped someone else take that next step on their journey. I encourage you to participate – either as an advisor or advisee. Sign up today!

At the end of the term this year, I also had the opportunity to share some of my experience and insights with soon-to-be graduates at the annual Kick Start your career conference with a great panel of fellow alumni. It’s great to stay connected with these new entrants to the workforce and hear the questions that are on their minds: work-life balance, remote work situations, workplace etiquette, negotiating starting wages and more. It’s a reminder that today’s students face a different reality, even compared to ten short years ago. It’s a privilege to be in a position to offer assistance to them and I hope you too will gain satisfaction from paying it forward to the next generation of Marauders.

So say yes to those invitations to attend student–alumni networking events. If you’re in a position to hire at your workplace, I encourage you to attend campus recruitment events, post your jobs, co-op and internship positions at McMaster and consider hiring Marauders first. I know the value of some shared wisdom from those who’ve gone before and I encourage you to experience the satisfaction that comes from helping another Marauder achieve their goals.

I’ve been known to say, when reflecting upon the work we do in alumni relations, “It’s all about people”. And I truly believe that. The MAA is about connecting people. We think you want to read about, learn about and get to know people. We help to foster relationships -between grads and students - between faculty and alumni – between alumni and alumni. That is the core of why we are here – to facilitate those meaningful connections that enrich the community of this university, and all of us who have a part in its history.

McMaster of course, starts with the story of one very integral person. Our founder, Senator William McMaster with his bequest is responsible for setting into motion all of our collective McMaster stories back in 1887. It’s remarkable to think of all that has transpired – all the lives enriched and stories enabled by that single act. 2019 marked a significant milestone for the McMaster Alumni Association with the 125th anniversary of its creation. On May 3, 1894 with the 16 members of the graduating class, they established the McMaster Alumni Association. We are grateful to those early alumni who had the forethought to establish the association and the desire to stay connected. Would they have imagined in 2019 that we would have welcomed our 200,000th graduate in joining the McMaster alumni family?

We had much to celebrate in 2019 and we marked the MAA’s anniversary with a special dinner bringing together former and current MAA board members and presidents to reflect on the rich past and the bright future ahead for the university.We also celebrated the year with you. Thousands participated in the “Bring Home the Senator” profile update campaign- taking part in the contest and ensuring we keep you closely connected to your alma mater.

As our numbers ever increase, we have numerous and diverse stories to share of our students and accomplished graduates. While the university continues to climb to new heights in international rankings, our alumni continue to reach new heights – Nobel heights included! And the MAA will continue to fulfill our role of telling the stories and connecting the people. Look for our new ALUMNI STORIES website where you can go to be inspired by the career paths of fellow alumni, learn what fascinating adventures and endeavours classmates have pursued and feel prideful about the impact McMaster graduates are making every day around the globe.

No matter how the numbers change… it will always be about the people!

Support McMaster University through a continued commitment to participation in governance, acting as an advocate and supporting fundraising with a focus on the growth of young alumni donors to McMaster.

Engage McMaster's evolving and shifting alumni constituencies by a clearer understanding of its demographic makeup and interests.

Foster high quality, distinctive, educational and service opportunities that deepen alumni engagement through on-campus, in community and online programming.

Make connections between alumni and students a cornerstone of the McMaster Alumni Association by creating more opportunities for interaction, programming and services.

Celebrate McMaster and alumni milestone, accomplishments and traditions through alumni events and alumni awards programs and communications.

Communicate a clear, consistent, and distinctive McMaster message that aligns with the university's goals and values and builds alumni ties to the McMaster Alumni Association and to McMaster.

Develop the resources, data and funding to meet the McMaster Alumni Association's strategic goals and support McMaster University.

This ongoing series was introduced in fall 2018 and is comprised of online lectures that are taped live through a webinar platform and then are archived for future viewing on the YouTube McMaster UTV channel. The content covered in these lectures is broad and ranges from the humanities (linguistics and philosophy) to the sciences (biology, astronomy, and psychology). Each lecture is approximately 30 mins in length which consists of a powerpoint presentation followed by a short Q & A answer. During the live recording the average alumni attendance for the five editions to date has been approximately 50-70 people – similar to an in-person lecture, however our ‘live’ audience has regularly included individuals tuning in from Europe and Australia. The larger outreach is the archived lecture where the viewer count ranges from 150 to 795 people depending on the topic. The archived lectures are marketed through Maroon Mail, It’s Friday emails, and through social media channels. The aim with this series is twofold; to engage alumni around the globe in their love of lifelong learning and to engage faculty on campus by sharing their expertise on interesting and topical subjects.

The Faculty of Social Sciences, formerly part of “Arts”, has had a very busy half century. In that time, it has produced the largest number of graduates with just under 50,000 alumni holding a Soc Sci degree! To mark this milestone anniversary, a cake was cut, and the doors opened to alumni, students, faculty and staff to discover and reflect as we peeked at the past, present and future of a social sciences education here at McMaster.

Highlights included a Soc Sci Showcase with each department sharing highlights of current study; Soc Sci Talks were delivered by current faculty members to offer a taste of current issues and discourse. A virtual reality exhibit put on through the Socrates project allowed participants to view a post-apocalyptic Nathan Philips Square in Toronto while others enjoyed tours of the new home to Social Sciences, L.R. Wilson Hall with its technically advanced “smart classrooms”, a black box theatre, handsome concert hall as a few of its key features. Marking the anniversary, the dean described the evolution of social ‘studies’ into social ‘sciences’ and the many career paths that the 13 areas of study within the faculty have led our alumni to success. The relevance of the skills of a well- rounded social sciences graduate continue to be sought after and relevant. The celebration was a great opportunity to welcome alumni back to campus to connect old and new and to engender pride in McMaster’s continued excellence.

The Grimsby-Niagara area has become an area of focus for hosting events and finding new community partners to collaborate with. Though relatively close to Hamilton, we realized the significant MAC population located in East Hamilton through Grimsby- Niagara were just outside of an easy travel distance to regularly attend talks held on or close to campus.

Connecting McMaster researchers to this ‘new’ community, we held two traditional Lager Series lectures in Grimsby in early 2019 which were very well received. The first featured Drs. Kathrine Morrison '82 and Gregory Steinberg, two Faculty of Health Sciences researchers who are working to address the problem of obesity and related health problems. The second featured McMaster English and Cultural Studies Professor Daniel Coleman, discussing his recent book “Yardwork,” a meditation of the sedimentary layers of ecological, cultural and political stories in his own back yard near McMaster campus.

Further, we learned the Chief Librarian of Grimsby Library is a proud McMaster alumna and together we have partnered to build the reputation and participation for both independent and mutual events. The Library’s Grimsby Author Series features Canadian authors in an engaging format. Now in its 19th season, it sells out with over 250 loyal patrons each season in the Casablanca Winery Inn. The MAA obtains a block of tickets and makes them available exclusively to appreciative alumni. We look forward to continuing this beneficial partnership with McMaster alumni author, Terry Fallis ’83, being one of the authors being featured this fall.

A unique roadshow, this travelling event highlights some of McMaster’s treasures – our archives. Hosted by President, Dr. Patrick Deane, curated by McMaster Librarian, Vivian Lewis, 5 research collection librarians brought gems from the archives - such as rare maps, Stuart MacLean Archives and Bertrand Russell Archives - to show and discuss with guests. A special addition was a performance by Vinyl Cafe pianist, John Sheard. Toronto and Ottawa alumni were pleased to have the opportunity to experience and learn from these archives, without the travel time to Hamilton and is another example of the MAA’s efforts to connect McMaster research and learning to alumni where they are. This successful format will become a model for future collaborations with the Library, and other groups on campus, to provide meaningful opportunities for alumni to engage in life-long learning with McMaster beyond 1280 Main St.

Patricia enrolled as a Mature Student at McMaster University in the School of Social Work and upon graduating with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work Degrees, she practiced Social Work at the Ministry of Health until her retirement in 1995. Patricia has maintained a life-long commitment to women and mental health, manifested by membership in various women’s organizations. Besides being a founding, charter member of the first Women’s Centre in Hamilton, she was an active member of the City of Hamilton Status of Women Committee and the first woman to become Chair of the Hamilton-Wentworth Police Services Board. She also was a founding member of Hamilton branches of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Friends of Schizophrenics and Women’s Centre, as well as the President of McMaster Alumni, School of Social Work.

Dr. Orson Morrison is a Clinical Psychologist and Director of the DePaul Family and Community Services (FCS) and is an Affiliate Clinical Associate Professor at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Morrison provides staff training, clinical supervision, program development and oversight of clinical services at FCS. Dr. Morrison has spent his career working with children, adolescents, and families that are involved in the child welfare system and those impacted by poverty, social exclusion, violence, and abuse. Dr. Morrison previously held positions as Vice President of Child and Family Services at Lawrence Hall Youth Services and Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of California, Berkeley.

Leo Johnson spent eight years in refugee camps, after fleeing war-torn Liberia in 1998. He arrived in Canada in 2006 as a government-sponsored refugee. Leo, who had completed his high school education in the refugee camps, applied to McMaster University and was accepted. In his second year, he founded CURE Canada (now Empowerment Squared), a charitable organization that supports over 200 newcomer youth and families through academic mentoring, digital literacy, access to sports and recreation, and ground-breaking educational projects in his native Liberia. Leo now spends his time between Canada and Liberia; his current project is the Liberian Learning Center, a community hub that will house the country’s first public library since the civil war began in 1989.

Paula Claudino has a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and Management from McMaster University and Master of Applied Science in Renewable Energy Engineering and Policy from Carleton University. She is a Professional Engineer with a career in industrial energy management and has had the opportunity to work with industries ranging in size from small and medium enterprises to large industry and mines in various countries, including Canada, Singapore, Bangladesh, South Korea, the U.S.A. and Brazil, as well as the European Union. She is fluent in English, French and Portuguese, and since moving to Germany in 2016, has been working on her German.

Meric S. Gertler was appointed as the 16th President of the University of Toronto in 2013. A professor of geography and planning, and the Goldring Chair in Canadian Studies, he is widely known for his work on the role of institutions in shaping innovation and local economic prosperity. His comparative analysis of urban economies spans North America, Europe and Asia. He has advised governments in Canada, the United States and Europe, as well as international agencies such as the OECD and EU. He has authored or edited nine books and has held visiting appointments at Oxford, University College London, UCLA, and the University of Oslo.

As a family physician, retired professional golfer, human rights activist, author and transgender woman, Dr. Bobbi Lancaster is an inspiring trailblazer, role model and public speaker.

Dr. Lynnette Madsen’s career has spanned industry, academia, and government; she is currently a program director in materials research at the U.S. National Science Foundation. She holds three patents, has authored one book and co-edited another, and has published three book chapters/sections and more than 100 articles. Lynnette has received many accolades for her outstanding scientific leadership, mentoring, promotion of women and minorities, and administrative excellence.

Alfredo Tan is the Chief Digital and Innovation Officer for WestJet where he will transform the WestJet guest experience across all digital channels over the entire travel journey and across all guest touch points. Previously, Alfredo was the Group Director of Global Marketing Solutions at Facebook Canada, where he led a team responsible for strategic marketing relationships with agencies and Fortune 500 companies across Canada.

Bob Taylor completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering at the University of Waterloo. He then completed his MBA degree at McMaster University in 1976. Other than his time with Procter & Gamble following the completion of his engineering degree, Bob has spent his entire professional career, spanning 35 years, in the insurance sector. Bob co-founded Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company with Mike George and John Garner in 2006.

Sabatino Vacca is the Founder, Artistic Director, and Chorus Master of the newly formed Southern Ontario Lyric Opera (SOLO). He is presently the Music Director of the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra (CSO), and the newly formed Milton Philharmonic Orchestra. He was on staff with Opera Hamilton and has worked as an opera coach for the University of Toronto, Laurier University, as well as the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. Sabatino is the recipient of the Spirit of Ontario Award for the Arts by the National Congress of Italian Canadians.

Since the inception of Plastic Mobile in 2007, Melody’s leadership and strategic thinking has made tidal waves in the tech industry. Having been crowned the “The Queen of Apps!” since 2010 it’s no surprise that leading brands have followed her into their mobile future. As COO, and Queen, Melody has led countless ground-breaking initiatives, collecting awards and accolades, including the Webby’s, W3’s, and Davies, as well as being named one of Canada’s Top 40 under 40, along the way.

Vocalist/guitarist Max Kerman, guitarist Michael DeAngelis and bassist Nick Dika are McMaster grads, who alongside drummer Tim Oxford and keyboardist Anthony Carone, formed the multi JUNO Award-winning rock band, ARKELLS while studying at McMaster University. In their decade long career Arkells have earned a number of post-graduate achievements in music including, 4 gold certified records, 2 gold certified songs, 3 #1 hits, a global touring resume and festival slots at some of the most respected festivals in the biz, including Coachella, Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo. Their most recent hit single, “Knocking At The Door,” spent an unprecedented 14 weeks at #1 on the Canadian Alt/Rock charts, making it the most played Alt/Rock song of 2017, and Arkells the most played band of the year. This June 23rd, Arkells return to play their biggest hometown spectacle yet, The Rally, a summer celebration at Hamilton’s Tim Hortons Field.

Mark Scattolon is an award-winning entrepreneur, sales and marketing professional with expertise in sales strategy, integrated marketing and brand storytelling. As the Co-Founder of Hangry, Mark has appeared on Dragons' Den (Season 10) along with CBC’s The Exchange, and is an active speaker at conferences in mobile tech, marketing to Millennials & Gen-Z, and the latest trends in digital media.

Adam Shoalts completed his Master's degree in History at McMaster in 2009, and is currently completing his doctorate in History at McMaster. In 2017, he completed a nearly 4,000 km journey alone by canoe and on foot across Canada's Arctic. The journey took nearly four months and was supported by McMaster University's alumni association, as well as the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. On his journey, Adam carried a McMaster University flag. He is a frequent guest speaker and has written two bestselling books, Alone Against the North and A History of Canada in 10 Maps. In 2013, he was made a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and in 2016 he was named a national champion of the Trans-Canada Trail.

Ushma, a recent graduate from the Honours Life Sciences program, is a prominent leader on the McMaster campus. As an avid intersectional feminist, Ushma founded the first Canadian chapter of the organization, She’s the First. Now a recipient of multiple awards, this club champions the education of girls in low-income countries. As the Co-President of UNICEF McMaster, Ushma has successfully raised awareness for numerous global development issues, while creating opportunities for McMaster students to support the wellbeing of children around the world. Ushma’s dedication towards alleviating social issues is also apparent through her extensive involvement with community organizations such as the Canadian Mental Health Association. Over the past few years, Ushma has also served on the McMaster Peer Conduct Board and the Clubs Executive Council (as the Chair of the Social Issues Division).

Moving forward, Ushma aims to combine her interest in healthcare with her passion for humanitarianism to contribute to the field of global health. In particular, she hopes to advocate for underprivileged and marginalized populations within the context of access to quality healthcare.

Shaarujaa Nadarajah is a first generation university student who just completed her honours degree in Life Sciences. She was the President of McMaster Relay for Life and Assistant Coordinator for the McMaster Shinerama Campaign raising a total of over 200,000 dollars for charitable initiatives. While she has contributed much of her time throughout her undergraduate career in the area of philanthropy, her passion has always laid in student governance. She served on the Student Representative Assembly representing science students prior to working as the Vice-President Administration for the McMaster Students Union. During her term, she worked alongside university partners to increase sexual violence response training for orientation representatives. Currently, she sits as the student representative on the University Planning Committee and Student Success Centre Advisory Committee. In addition, she supported the McMaster Institute for Research on Aging on an intergenerational project that aimed to bridge the gap between students and older adults.

Vanessa Raponi graduates with a degree in Materials Engineering & Management. After founding the McMaster EngiQueers club in June 2013 - an organization aimed to focus on intersectional diversity in engineering, Vanessa remained president of the organization for 4 years. In September 2016, she founded the national equivalent - EngiQueers Canada - to unite schools with similar initiatives. By July 2017, it became a certified Canadian not-for-profit organization, and had grown to represent 31 schools in 9 provinces. Vanessa is a Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation ambassador - a national women in engineering ambassadorship that involves encouraging young women to enter STEM fields. She has also competed in the interdisciplinary case competitions MARS Apprentice and the international Engineering and Commerce Case Competition. Her team placed 1st and 3rd respectively.