Strong alumni turnout marks IMI’s ongoing success

Last Thursday evening (January 21, 2016) the Institute for Management & Innovation hosted its first alumni event, welcoming graduates from all of the Institute’s programs, as well as faculty and staff.

Held at the sleek downtown Toronto restaurant, Via Vai Pizzeria and Wine Bar, the event gave more than one hundred attendees a chance to catch up with old classmates under large-scale hanging art.

“It’s nice to see the engagement of alumni that hadn’t seen each other for a while, some of them realizing they worked a block apart from one another,” said Donna Heslin, assistant director of external relations for the Institute.

Enjoying the chance to network and swap ideas was a key part of the event, allowing graduates to speak informally with their peers. “I think it was a great opportunity for alumni to feel like they are a part of something bigger than just themselves or their own program; that they’re actually a part of IMI,” added Heslin.

IMI graduates are shaping the future of business worldwide. One of IMI’s priorities is to continue fostering and developing a strong sense of community so that current students can benefit from these lasting, influential relationships.

“The alumni mixer was an excellent way of reconnecting with my former classmates and see where their journey as business professionals is taking them,” said Naina Gazula, strategy specialist with Bell Canada.

“It almost felt homely to be surrounded by a sea of familiar faces and the buzz of excited chatter that only school networking events can bring,” she said.

IMI thanks everyone who attended this event, and looks forward to next year’s alumni gathering.