Bram Freedman, Vice-President, Development and External Relations, and Secretary-General; Leisha LeCouvie, Senior Director, Alumni Relations; Philippe Pourreaux, President, Concordia University Alumni Association | Photo: Joe Dresdner
The holidays are fast approaching and our community has a lot to look forward to in the coming year.
Concordia’s 2015 Thinking Out Loud public lecture series, held in collaboration with The Globe and Mail and The Walrus, will spotlight our university’s researchers as they discuss societal issues — from digital identities to vice — with other Canadian thought leaders. I invite you to attend our seven nationwide events in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Calgary.
It’s been a busy autumn. Many of our alumni returned to their alma mater in September for vibrant Homecoming celebrations that marked Concordia’s 40th anniversary.
Homecoming 2014’s gatherings were bookended by President Alan Shepard’s talk on Concordia’s future and our student awards fundraiser, the Concordia Golf Classic that raised $285,000.
As part of the university’s 40th anniversary festivities, and to mark four decades of philanthropy, Concordia honoured donors at a special celebration in October. The evening was highlighted by a stirring video on the impact of giving. I invite you to watch Celebrating 40 years of philanthropy and discover why affection for Concordia runs deep.
There’s much to be proud of. Two of our graduates picked up Emmy Awards last summer. Just last month, a talented alumna won a Sobey Art Award worth $50,000 for her creative works. November also saw two Concordia grads awarded the Prix du Québec.
For every triumph of our alumni, there are often other unsung Concordia heroes. I urge you to nominate our top community members for Alumni Recognition Awards by December 31.
Our alumni accomplishments are impressive. They reflect a talented — and fast-growing — community. The Concordia family stands at 188,000 grads. Feedback on our programs is vital. Responses to last winter’s alumni survey helped us bolster our programs and connect with you in more meaningful ways.
Leisha LeCouvie, our senior director of Alumni Relations, and Philippe Pourreaux, president of the Concordia University Alumni Association, are happy to hear from you at alumni@concordia.ca and explore ways to strengthen alumni bonds. Please send in your suggestions.
There are many Concordia successes to reflect upon. With the holidays and 2015 looming, there’s much more to anticipate.
Stay connected to your alma mater. Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter. Network on LinkedIn. Watch us on YouTube and check out event photos on Flickr.
On behalf of your alma mater, enjoy the upcoming holiday break. I look forward to sharing many more Concordia successes in 2015.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season,
