The MCM program expanded my thinking and gave me foundational, theoretical knowledge that has helped me become a strategic communications management professional. It taught me to adopt systems-level thinking, use two-way communications to advance the business objectives of an organization, and help constituents and stakeholders connect on a sense of shared purpose and values. All of this is essential to generating the goodwill, trust and support that builds and protects an institution’s reputation.

The MCM program taught me how to think strategically, and how to speak intelligently and confidently about the work we do as communications professionals. 10 years later, I’m still reaping the rewards of what I’ve learned. One of the biggest takeways was from one of our professors, Micheal Meath. How I recall it is him sharing that we need to be well-rounded business professionals who have an opinion – we just happen to be all-stars at Communications also. Following this advice has not only helped me get into the room and get a seat at the time from time to time, but now, I get to train, develop, coach and be a trusted advisor to senior leaders. Completing this program was one of the best things I’ve done for my career.

Being part of the MCM program was a time of significant professional growth for me. I was able to learn from some of Canada’s most influential and important communicators, many of whom I now call friends and colleagues. The program enhanced my reputation as a professional communicator and opened doors to new job opportunities. I am proud to step into my new leadership role with CAE and to be carrying forward my academic learnings to McGill, where I have the opportunity to teach a new generation of professional communicators.

In addition to developing my skills in business and communications, the MCM program has provided me with the opportunity to learn from elite professors and industry leaders while building a fantastic professional and personal network. The gains I’ve experienced are not only reflected in the progression of my own career but that of my former cohort – all of whom have either advanced or changed their careers since graduating from the MCM program.

The experience I gained through MCM has been crucial for positioning me to assume an enterprise-wide executive role and has helped position me well take on an even larger scope of responsibility. The change is part of several other organizational updates at BC Housing, as we evolve the structure to suit our increasingly complex and high-profile mandate.

The MCM program exposed me to an area of communications that I would have otherwise likely never considered. Its business component offers students who often come from a creative background an opportunity to learn finance in a safe, supportive and well structured environment, showcasing how business and public relations can thrive together.

The MCM program has elevated my skills and insights in key areas like crisis communications, data analysis and digital strategy. I have been able to apply my learnings immediately, and the unique experience and rich networking opportunities provided by MCM have directly supported my career advancement.

The MCM program helped me enhance my skillset, equipping me with much-needed strategic tools to create effective and impactful communications for different audience groups.