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The Schulich community united for a day of insight and connection at CONNECT 2025: New Horizons, an inspiring alumni forum. This half-day event featured dynamic panel discussions, thought-provoking workshops, and valuable networking opportunities, empowering alumni to explore new possibilities and navigate the future with confidence.  “CONNECT ’25 is one of the biggest events on our school calendar,” said Dean Detlev Zwick. “Our theme this year, New Horizons, couldn’t have been timelier. We’re living through a period of massive global transformation – from disruptive technologies and AI to geopolitical tensions and shifting economic alliances. It’s a time of volatility – but also one that opens the door to immense possibility and opportunity.”  “CONNECT 2025 was a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and innovation. Alumni walked away not just with insights, but with a renewed sense of confidence and purpose, ready to embrace the future and turn challenges into opportunities,” said Christina Niederwanger Executive Director, Advancement and Alumni Engagement.   The event launched with a compelling fireside chat featuring Dean Detlev Zwick, Daniel Tisch Echevarria, President & CEO of Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and Rob Cerjanec, Ajax Member of Parliament. Echevarria is a business, public policy, and community leader known globally as an expert in corporate communications, public policy, community engagement, crisis and reputation management. Cerjanec is a small business owner and advocate for publicly funded education, is a MPP for Ajax and serves as the Ontario Liberal critic for Economic Development, Innovation, and Tourism.   Throughout the day, attendees had the chance to participate in Coach’s Corner where six coaches offered 1:1 professional coaching sessions. Networking sessions were also held in the CIBC Marketplace for attendees to meet with like-minded individuals to discuss Consulting, Marketing,  Entrepreneurship, Real Estate, and Finance as well as a general networking session. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in one of four breakout sessions including: Not So Tarr-iffic, The ROI in AI: Case Studies of Business Transformation and Success, Pitch Perfect: Mastering the Art and Science of Persuasion, and The Future of Real Estate & Infrastructure: Navigating Disruption and Opportunity. Four moderators and 11 speakers discussed key insights, strategies, and industry trends, leaving attendees with valuable takeaways and fresh perspectives to apply in their fields.  

To close off the event, the Missing Headlines panel was moderated by Dean Zwick discussing transformative trends that will have a lasting impact on business and society: The Evolution of AI, Geopolitical Shifts Beyond Tariffs, The Power of Startups in Driving Innovation. The expert panelists Connie Bonello, Insights and Data Financial Services Leader, Capgemini, Chris Carder, Executive Director of the Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship; Co-Director of Entrepreneurial Studies; and Adjunct Professor, and Matthias Kipping, Professor of Strategic Management; Richard E. Waugh Chair in Business History, and Associate Dean; Kellogg-Schulich Executive MBA, all shared thought-provoking insights, leaving attendees with a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the future and actionable strategies to navigate them.  “There’s nothing quite like the energy of coming together in person, CONNECT 2025 reminded us of the power of face-to-face connection. From insightful discussions to meaningful networking, the day was a celebration of collaboration, inspiration, and the collective drive to shape the future,” said Christina Niederwanger.  “CONNECT ‘25 showed us what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose and momentum. We all left more inspired, informed and connected than ever,” said Dean Detlev Zwick.  “This event reinforced the power of collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge, leaving attendees energized and equipped to embrace the future with confidence.”   CONNECT 2025 was generously sponsored by TD Insurance and CAA Club Group of Companies.  

Dennis Mitchell (MBA ’03) often attributes his success in business to a combination of the lessons he learned on the football field, where teamwork, strategy, and competition were essential, and his strong foundation in finance, management and leadership, which he honed through his education here at the Schulich School of Business. As CEO and CIO of Starlight Capital, Dennis brings the same competitive drive and discipline that defined his athletic career to his leadership in the financial and asset management world. Much like football, where each player has a specialized role and the success of the team depends on everyone performing their part, Dennis believes that the key to thriving in business lies in consistent execution, collaboration, and adaptability.

“We never entered a week or a game without a clear game plan — knowing our strengths, understanding the opponent’s weaknesses, and figuring out exactly how to leverage both. That same mindset is crucial in business: strategy, preparation, and execution make all the difference.”

  Under his leadership, Starlight has grown into a leading investment firm by adapting to market changes and maintaining a sharp focus on long-term goals.

  Dennis is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders, helping them navigate the complexities of business. He believes success comes from a clear vision, strong teamwork, and the ability to pivot in the face of challenges.  Reflecting on his own journey, Dennis shares valuable lessons on the importance of long-term planning, fostering a growth mindset, and cultivating a collaborative culture—principles that resonate with both emerging and established leaders alike. A Path of Professional Evolution and Change Dennis began his journey with unwavering determination to play professional football. But after six knee surgeries, that dream was sidelined. In search of a new direction, he found unexpected inspiration in a professor whose lectures frequently referenced Warren Buffett. When Buffett revealed his investment in Coca-Cola, the name resonated—and so began Dennis’s deep dive into Buffetology, the book that sparked a new passion: becoming a portfolio manager. He spent three and a half years at a major Canadian bank, determined to transition into asset management from the personal banking side. When persistence wasn’t enough to break through, he made a calculated move—pursuing an MBA from the Schulich School of Business to tip the scales in his favor. The experience of condensing his MBA into a single, high-pressure year while tackling the Level 3 CFA exam and navigating personal challenges proved to be a defining chapter in his life. It equipped him with not only the knowledge and credentials, but also the clarity, adaptability, and resilience to chart a new path forward. “If what you’re doing isn’t working, change it up,” he reflects—a mindset that has shaped his professional evolution ever since. To Dennis, diversity is at the core of strong decision-making. “The more diverse your experience, the more likely you are to come up with optimal solutions,” he says. Schulich’s diverse student body gave him exposure to varied perspectives, and those interactions were fundamental to developing the tools that continue to shape his leadership. Education as a Catalyst for Growth Education has played a pivotal role in Dennis’s personal and professional development.  “At Schulich, it’s partly what you bring to the table and partly what the school brings to the table,” he reflects.  Professors like Larry Ginsburg, Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management; Ingrid McLeod-Dick, Instructor of Finance; and former Schulich instructor Anthony Scilipoti, President & CEO at Veritas Group of Companies; not only engaged him but challenged him to sharpen his critical thinking and problem-solving abilities—skills that remain at the heart of his work today. Dennis launched Starlight Capital to offer a unique blend of public and private asset exposure that mimics institutional strategies for retail investors. “There had to be a compelling reason to start another firm,” he notes. With massive global shifts into private real estate, infrastructure, and equity, Starlight is positioned to bridge a crucial gap in the Canadian market. While Starlight Capital reflects Dennis’s vision within the asset management space, his commitment to creating opportunity extends well beyond. Championing Equity Through the Black Opportunity Fund As a co-founder and board member of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF), Dennis plays a pivotal role in dismantling systemic barriers and expanding access to capital within the Black community. “We’re not focused on ending racism—we’re focused on neutralizing its impact by restoring the opportunities that racism denies people,” he says. The Black Opportunity Fund was established to direct philanthropic, corporate, and government funding toward Black-led non-profits, charities and entrepreneurs. Since its inception, the fund has launched micro-lending programs, awarded education grants, and is preparing to introduce housing and investment initiatives to support Black families and entrepreneurs.

“There’s an old saying: you spend the first third of your life learning as much as you can, the second third earning as much as you can, and the final third making as much of an impact as you can. For me, the Black Opportunity Fund is that impact—it’s my legacy.”  

Dennis firmly believes that opportunity is not a zero-sum game. “When we deny opportunities to marginalized groups, we all become poorer,” he says. Through the Black Opportunity Fund, his goal is to foster intergenerational wealth and build lasting economic momentum in communities across Canada. “People often ask how I’ll know if I’ve been successful,” he said. “For me, there are two answers. First, I’ll know I’ve succeeded if my grandchildren take the Black Opportunity Fund for granted—because it’s always been there, and they’ve always known they could turn to it for support. Second, and more importantly, it’s my hope that their grandchildren will have never even heard of the Fund—because it will have fulfilled its mission so completely that it no longer needs to exist.” Diversity as a Strategic Advantage At Starlight Capital, Dennis has intentionally built a team that breaks away from Bay Street’s traditional tendency to recruit from a narrow pool of top-tier schools and homogenous social networks. Instead, he has championed concrete, inclusive hiring practices that open doors to candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Dennis is critical of rigid hiring filters that overlook non-traditional candidates. “When everyone comes from the same academic or social background, you’re just creating surface-level diversity,” he cautions. By valuing entrepreneurial spirit, community engagement, and lived experience alongside conventional credentials, Dennis has proven that diversity—when done right—is not only the right thing to do, but a powerful driver of innovation, collaboration, and long-term success. This belief in inclusive opportunity also shapes how Dennis mentors the next generation of leaders, offering candid, practical advice rooted in experience. Advice to Future Leaders To aspiring professionals, Dennis offers a clear message: network across.

“Don’t look up and ask the CEO to pull you forward—look beside you. The person next to you in school or at work might be your future business partner.”

  While he’s inundated with coffee chat requests, he encourages younger talent to seek guidance from peers just a few years ahead of them. Their paths into the industry are far more relevant—and replicable.

  Reconnecting with Schulich Today, Dennis remains actively engaged with the Schulich Alumni Network. His return isn’t just nostalgic—it’s strategic and purposeful. “I came to Schulich originally with a purpose. I left with skills I still use today,” he says. His time at Schulich coincided with major life milestones—starting a family and building his career—making the experience all the more meaningful. Staying involved allows him to give back, share hard-earned wisdom, and, in his words, “satisfy 800+ LinkedIn coffee requests in one go.” For Dennis, it’s about investing in the next generation the same way others once invested in him—ensuring that access, opportunity, and inspiration continue to flow forward.

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  During a recent visit to the Schulich School of Business, graduate Penny Wise (MBA ’91) took the opportunity to reconnect with our Alumni Network, enjoy a lunch with Dean Zwick, and meet with members of our Marketing and Communications team. In these conversations, she shared not only the lessons she has learned during her career journey but also her genuine passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders, offering valuable advice on leadership and business strategy. As Vice President of Global Public Policy & Communications at 3M and former President (Managing Director) of 3M Canada, Penny has played a key role in shaping the company’s impact both in Canada and globally. Yet, it’s her openness, care, and unwavering commitment to supporting others that truly set her apart. Recently named the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Leader of the Year, Penny’s down-to-earth approach and dedication to lifting others up make her an inspiring role model for aspiring business professionals.

A Path of Professional Evolution and Change

“When I joined 3M in 2000, I never imagined my path would unfold this way,” she says with a smile. Penny started in the Consumer Business Group as the marketing lead for the Filtrete™ and Command™ product lines. With a background in hardware, having worked with brands like Home Depot and Lowe’s, it was a natural fit for her. Over the years, Penny’s role at 3M evolved in ways she hadn’t anticipated—spanning marketing, sales, and brand leadership. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she joined 3M’s Six Sigma Black Belt program. “It was daunting at first, but looking back, those two years were invaluable,” she reflects. “I gained so much insight into the breadth of our business, met incredible people, and saw firsthand how 3M’s entrepreneurial spirit drives innovation.” After that experience, Penny took on a corporate marketing role, where she influenced high-profile projects, including 3M’s sponsorship of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. “It was a dream project for any marketer,” she says, recalling attending the opening ceremonies and watching a Canadian win gold. Later in 2010, she relocated to the global head office in St. Paul, Minnesota, and took on a global role in 3M’s International Marketing Group, where she helped shape strategies and build global marketing teams. In 2014, Penny took on one of her proudest achievements—leading the brand refresh as 3M’s Chief Branding Officer. “We introduced the tagline “3M Science. Applied to Life. ™” to capture how our work makes a real difference in people’s lives,” she explains. The impact of that message is still felt today. By 2020, she was back in Canada as President (Managing Director) of 3M Canada, helping guide the company through the challenges of the pandemic. Today, as Vice President of Global Public Policy & Communications, Penny’s focus is on government relations, sustainability, and branding—new spaces that continue to ignite her passion for 3M’s broader impact. Reflecting on her career, Penny sees it as a series of unexpected but rewarding turns.

“I thought my career would be linear, but 3M has shown me that growth often comes from embracing change and stepping into new challenges.”  

“That’s the advice I give my mentees now: stay open to change and trust the process. It’s made all the difference for me.”

The Power of Building High-Performing Teams

“One of the most important lessons I’ve taken from my experience at 3M is how essential it is to build a high-performing team and surround yourself with experts.”  She continues, “It’s about bringing in people who are the best in their areas, setting clear goals, and then removing obstacles for them. My role is to create the environment where they can thrive, even if that means having the tough conversations when necessary. The results are always better when we empower the right people with the right resources.”

Lead with Authenticity

When asked about authentic leadership and its impact on building high-performing teams, Penny shared her reflections on why this approach has become so essential, particularly since the pandemic. “The pandemic,” Penny explained, “gave everyone the chance to embrace authentic leadership, something that had often been undervalued in the past.” As an empathetic leader, Penny values diverse perspectives and actively listens to her team, even if not all feedback is acted upon. “Understanding diverse viewpoints helps address the broader needs of the organization and gets you to a better, stronger outcome,” she explains. “Authentic leadership is about more than just listening—it’s about showing genuine care for team members, regularly checking in, and not being afraid to show emotion when it matters. Before the pandemic,” she observed, “leaders were expected to be tough, almost unemotional. But during that time, people appreciated honesty and vulnerability—admitting when you don’t have all the answers builds trust.” For Penny, being an authentic leader also means having the courage to make the right choices, even when faced with opposition. “At the end of the day,” she said, “you need to be able to sleep at night, knowing you did the right thing.” Authenticity, she noted, is also far more sustainable:

“Pretending to be someone else is exhausting. Staying true to yourself is not only easier, but it’s the foundation of long-lasting leadership.”  

Embracing Challenges: Overcoming Doubt & Discovering Potential

Penny also reflected on her educational journey as a series of surprising turns, with moments that reshaped how she saw herself and her goals. “It started in grade four,” she says, recalling when a teacher convinced her she was “terrible at math,” leading to years of dread and self-doubt about the subject. “I carried that feeling for a long time,” Penny admits, convinced that math just wasn’t for her. When she entered university at Glendon College, Penny initially planned to major in history and minor in French. But fate had other plans when a calculus class was the only course that fit into her schedule. Despite her long-held math anxieties, she decided to give it a try. “It ended up being my best grade that year,” she said, attributing her success to an energetic professor who brought the subject to life. “There was finally a story to tell with math, and it helped me think in new ways,” she shared. This experience led her to switch her focus to a math degree and later pursue an MBA at the Schulich School of Business. Her time at Schulich was a turning point, though not without its challenges. Without a business background, Penny initially struggled with subjects like management accounting. “Looking back, I realize I should have engaged more,” she reflects. “But in the end, the MBA taught me how to think strategically, communicate clearly, and structure ideas—skills that helped me in ways I didn’t even realize at the time.” Penny’s journey underscores the importance of embracing challenges and trusting in one’s potential. “So many people, especially women, face similar struggles,” she says, recalling how often women reach out to her about their own experiences with math and STEM. “I want to help others avoid feeling small or inadequate because of one negative experience, especially in subjects like math.” This commitment to fostering confidence extends to her parenting, where Penny has made a conscious effort to support her daughter and son in ways not everyone is supported. “I wanted to make sure my kids never felt discouraged the same way, I did” she adds.

For Penny, education isn’t just about discovering what you want to do; it’s also about learning what you don’t want to do. “I think sometimes education teaches you just as much about what isn’t right for you as what is,” she reflects. It’s a lesson she’s carried with her throughout her career and life. Her story is a reminder that education isn’t just about finding one’s career right away; it’s about growing, adapting, and finding new ways to apply your skills, no matter how winding the path may be.

Reconnecting with Schulich: Giving Back and Building Community

Penny has recently reconnected with the Schulich alumni network, and she is enjoying the experience. “It has been great catching up with people I haven’t seen in years,” she said. A standout moment came at the WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada Gala, where Penny was honoured as one of the top 100 women in 2022. While there, she ran into an old classmate. “We had a quick chat, and it sparked a real effort to reconnect.” Penny’s recent visit to Schulich reminded her just how special the alumni community is. Her lunch with Dean Zwick and Christina Niederwanger, Executive Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement was a highlight. “We had such a great conversation about everything from the economy to how MBA programs have evolved. The building might look different, but the Schulich spirit is still the same.” Reflecting on her own career, Penny is passionate about giving back and helping others. “If I can help just one person overcome their challenges or figure out their career path, that’s a win,” she shared. “Now, my job is to make it easier for others to succeed.” She sees mentoring and supporting others as a core part of what the Schulich alumni community is all about. Christina Niederwanger, Executive Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement, couldn’t agree more:

“Penny’s commitment to mentoring and empowering others is exactly what the Schulich alumni network is about. She’s an incredible role model for our community.”  

For Penny, reconnecting with Schulich isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about lifting-up others and paying it forward.

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Schulich School of Business alumni and community members in Shanghai gathered on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor for a special event celebrating leadership, community, and connection. Hosted by Schulich Dean Detlev Zwick and Christina Niederwanger, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Engagement, the event marked the official handover of leadership for the China Alumni Chapter from Jonathan Cheung (MBA ’73) to Andrew Wu (MBA ’89), Group Greater China President at LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton). The event welcomed special guest Chris Loan, Consul – Political, Economic and Public Affairs for Global Affairs Canada, who recognized the School’s growing ties with China over the past 20 years, including partnerships with Chinese business schools through academic exchanges, executive education partnerships and dual degree programs. The day featured networking opportunities, a celebratory lunch, and the Dean’s Leadership Dialogue, where Dean Zwick and Andrew Wu engaged in a dynamic discussion on leadership, vision, and the future of the alumni community.

  Honouring Jonathan Cheung’s Legacy  Jonathan Cheung was recognized for his years of dedicated service as President of the China Alumni Chapter. Under his leadership, the Chapter grew in strength and influence, fostering meaningful connections among alumni and launching impactful initiatives.

  Dean Zwick thanked Cheung for his invaluable contributions and emphasized the importance of alumni chapters in building strong global connections. “Under Jonathan’s dedicated guidance the China Chapter has grown into a vibrant and inspiring community over the past two decades, one that reflects the very best of Schulich’s global spirit. From the very beginning, Jonathan and his wife Janice worked with unmatched energy and grace to unite our alumni, foster meaningful connections, and build what is today one of Schulich’s most active alumni chapters.” Welcoming Andrew Wu: A Vision for the Future The event celebrated the official handover of leadership to Andrew Wu, an accomplished business leader and Schulich MBA graduate. As Group Greater China President at LVMH, Wu has overseen the growth of one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands in a highly dynamic market. His extensive experience and insights into leadership, innovation, and global business strategy position him as an inspiring new leader for the China Alumni Chapter. “Andrew’s distinguished career and transformative work at LVMH speak volumes about his vision, strategic acumen, and ability to lead and inspire,” said Dean Zwick. “We are incredibly fortunate to have Andrew at the helm, and I am confident he will usher in an exciting new era for the Schulich community here in China.” Andrew Wu shared his vision for the future of the Chapter. “I’m honored to take on this role and continue promotion of the incredible work done by Jonathan. I hope to see more connections within our alumni community and building bridges of more collaboration to benefit not only our members but also Schulich as a whole.”

  Wu also discussed his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the importance of adaptability in navigating complex markets. His insights resonated deeply with attendees, offering valuable lessons for both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders. A Memorable Event The afternoon concluded with engaging conversations, new connections, and a shared commitment to the future of the Schulich Global Alumni Network in China.

  “Connecting with our alumni in global hubs like China is essential for Schulich’s vision of being a truly international business school,” said Niederwanger. “It is through events like this that we not only celebrate alumni success but also strengthen the ties that unite us as a global family and make us Canada’s global business school. Together, we can continue to build a community that supports each other and makes a meaningful difference in the lives and future careers of our students.”

  For a closer look at the event, view the event photo gallery and the video.

Schulich School of Business alumni and community members in Shanghai gathered on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor for a special event celebrating leadership, community, and connection. Hosted by Schulich Dean Detlev Zwick and Christina Niederwanger, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Engagement, the event marked the official handover of leadership for the China Alumni Chapter from Jonathan Cheung (MBA ’73) to Andrew Wu (MBA ’89), Group Greater China President at LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton). The event welcomed special guest Chris Loan, Consul – Political, Economic and Public Affairs for Global Affairs Canada, who recognized the School’s growing ties with China over the past 20 years, including partnerships with Chinese business schools through academic exchanges, executive education partnerships and dual degree programs. The day featured networking opportunities, a celebratory lunch, and the Dean’s Leadership Dialogue, where Dean Zwick and Andrew Wu engaged in a dynamic discussion on leadership, vision, and the future of the alumni community.

  Honouring Jonathan Cheung’s Legacy  Jonathan Cheung was recognized for his years of dedicated service as President of the China Alumni Chapter. Under his leadership, the Chapter grew in strength and influence, fostering meaningful connections among alumni and launching impactful initiatives.

  Dean Zwick thanked Cheung for his invaluable contributions and emphasized the importance of alumni chapters in building strong global connections. “Under Jonathan’s dedicated guidance the China Chapter has grown into a vibrant and inspiring community over the past two decades, one that reflects the very best of Schulich’s global spirit. From the very beginning, Jonathan and his wife Janice worked with unmatched energy and grace to unite our alumni, foster meaningful connections, and build what is today one of Schulich’s most active alumni chapters.” Welcoming Andrew Wu: A Vision for the Future The event celebrated the official handover of leadership to Andrew Wu, an accomplished business leader and Schulich MBA graduate. As Group Greater China President at LVMH, Wu has overseen the growth of one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands in a highly dynamic market. His extensive experience and insights into leadership, innovation, and global business strategy position him as an inspiring new leader for the China Alumni Chapter. “Andrew’s distinguished career and transformative work at LVMH speak volumes about his vision, strategic acumen, and ability to lead and inspire,” said Dean Zwick. “We are incredibly fortunate to have Andrew at the helm, and I am confident he will usher in an exciting new era for the Schulich community here in China.” Andrew Wu shared his vision for the future of the Chapter. “I’m honored to take on this role and continue promotion of the incredible work done by Jonathan. I hope to see more connections within our alumni community and building bridges of more collaboration to benefit not only our members but also Schulich as a whole.”

  Wu also discussed his professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the importance of adaptability in navigating complex markets. His insights resonated deeply with attendees, offering valuable lessons for both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders. A Memorable Event The afternoon concluded with engaging conversations, new connections, and a shared commitment to the future of the Schulich Global Alumni Network in China.

  “Connecting with our alumni in global hubs like China is essential for Schulich’s vision of being a truly international business school,” said Niederwanger. “It is through events like this that we not only celebrate alumni success but also strengthen the ties that unite us as a global family and make us Canada’s global business school. Together, we can continue to build a community that supports each other and makes a meaningful difference in the lives and future careers of our students.”

  For a closer look at the event, view the event photo gallery.