Celebrating 50 Years of the Business Banquet
For 50 years, the annual Business Banquet has been bringing together Carleton business students, alumni and industry professionals for a special evening of networking.
This exciting milestone was celebrated on November 27 at the Shaw Centre, overlooking iconic views of the heart of downtown Ottawa. The program was co-hosted by Sprott Business Student Society (SBSS) President, Hanna Di Virgilio and BCom/10 graduate, Mark Featherstonhaugh, now a Senior Technology Consultant at Deloitte.
“Banquet is an event that brings together the entire Sprott community,” said Hanna Di Virgilio, Sprott Business Student Society President and third year Bachelor of Commerce student. “Whether you’re a current student, faculty or alumni, Banquet is an evening dedicated to passionate Sprotties who are eager to get their name out in the business world and create lifelong connections.”
The legacy of this student-organized event dates back as far as the establishment of the School itself. Each year, the enthusiasm and participation in Banquet continues to grow. Students and professionals are seated based on industry and area of interest, which provides an invaluable opportunity to share industry insights and grow career connections within the tight-knit Sprott network.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Keynote speakers included BCom/99 graduate, Jason Daley, who highlighted the importance of giving back to the community through the Alumni Association. Corporate Director and Consultant Lori O’Neil, BCom/88, reflected on her time as a student and how the Sprott network has evolved and grown over the years.
As students graduate, become alumni and begin their professional careers, their memories of Banquet draw them to return each year. Graduates recall the value of the Sprott network and how it helped them get to where they are today. The longstanding tradition would not be possible without the loyalty of Sprott’s alumni network and their unwavering desire to give back to the community that gave them so much.
Career Connections
BCom/80 graduate and CFO of Mitel, Steve Spooner addressed students in a video message, emphasizing the value of using Banquet as an opportunity to market yourself. Steve knows the firsthand as he began his career as the top-paid graduate in his field at the top-rated accounting firm worldwide due to a connection he made at the Business Banquet. His experience has come full circle as he has hired Sprott graduates who he has met attending Banquet as a professional.
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