#IveyConnects, a new student-run initiative at the Ivey Business School at Western University Canada, is bringing MBAs together to make an impact in the local community.
Developed by the Ivey MBA Class of 2018’s MBA Association, #IveyConnects aims to strengthen the relationship between Ivey MBAs and the greater community.
Every month, the group selects a new local organization or cause of importance to support, giving back in whatever way they can. To support the Ronald McDonald House London, an organization that provides affordable lodging and comfort for families with children receiving long-term medical care, Ivey MBA students prepared breakfast for nearly 150 guests. “It was amazing to see the many smiling faces and receive such heartfelt thanks from a number of families residing at the home,” said Sarah Smart, Ivey MBA 2018. “I can’t help but think it left my classmates and me feeling optimistic and focused for the week ahead as well.”
Another initiative taken by the group this year was to support the global Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event, raising more than $2,400 and awareness regarding issues of domestic and gender violence. The Ivey MBA team was made up of 22 participants, including program director David Wood and one of Ivey’s highly regarded professors, Vaughan Radcliffe.
MBA student Sarah Smart also commented on the relevance of the issues #IveyConnects chooses to support to the student’s futures in the workforce. “Given that nearly one of every two professional women in Canada have reported experiencing some level of sexual harassment in the workplace, it was great to see so many of our male classmates join us in taking action,” she observed.
Only in its first year, students like Smart hope that #IveyConnects will begin a legacy of giving back that will help foster a strong community and carry students through their entry into the workforce and continued connection with the university as alumni.