Each year, McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business takes a look at the success of the previous year. In 2016, the school had much to celebrate, including five new faculty members, the inaugural EMBA in Digital Transformation class and more. And all of it helped the school pursue its mission of transforming business and society. Let’s take a look at a few of the 2016 highlights.
First, the year took off with the launch of the brand new DeGroote Women’s Professional Network (DWPN). The network quickly became wildly popular and held many events for the business community. But don’t worry if you missed your chance to attend in 2016, tickets are already on sale for 2017 with upcoming events in Burlington and Toronto, which will be focused on mental health, innovation, creativity and taking risks.
The year also saw DeGroote welcoming five new faculty members: Goran Calic, Alina Nastasoiu, Erin Reid, Manaf Zargoush and Maryam Ghasemaghaei. In addition, the School launched two new initiatives including the world’s first Executive MBA in Digital Transformation and the Health and Leadership Academy. Both initiatives provided students with new avenues and opportunities for study and connection.
As for students in the Commerce, MBA, MFin and Ph.D. programs, they also enjoyed an enriching year. In April, MBA students celebrated a record number of case competition victories across Canada and around the world. Their successes included seven first-place finishes, two second-place wins and two third-place finishes. As for DeGroote Commerce students, they celebrated the 10th anniversary of ‘Canada’s Next Top Ad Exec’ with more than 230 teams across Canada.
As for 2017? There are more exciting things to come. DeGroote plans to expand its MBA recruitment efforts and to open the new Digital Transformation Research Centre (DTRC), which will investigate the growing digital revolution and provide insights and analytics. The DTRC is part of the newly-opened fourth floor of the Ron Joyce Centre (RJC).
“Like all of you, I am looking forward to the many exciting developments 2017 will surely bring,” wrote Dean Leonard Waverman. “Take some time to reflect and recharge during our winter break, and on behalf of the entire DeGroote School of Business, please enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.”