Mayor Brown Highlights Another Successful Alumni Networking Event
St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) alumni recently came together to celebrate and learn from each other in what is proving to be one of the fastest-growing alumni events at the school.
On February 20, 2024, the SMCS Alumni Association (SMCSAA) hosted the most recent edition of its networking events, this time featuring distinguished keynote speaker Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown ’97.
Alumni spanning the Classes of 1972 through to 2023 and representing a diverse range of industries, including banking, real estate, architecture, and more, came together in an evening defined by networking, mentorship, and support.
“St. Michael’s provided me with a great education, an incredible athletic experience, and countless memories, but most of all, it gave me access to an exclusive community,” says Andrew Gidaro ’02, Alumni Association President. “The St. Michael’s network is one of the greatest resources a graduate has at their disposal. These networking events allow graduates, both young and seasoned, to leverage this network for mentorship, friendship, or business purposes.”
Host Chris Paolini ’09 introduced Mayor Brown who shared with alumni some of the ways his municipality has worked towards encouraging innovations through select industries. He highlighted some of the international experiences he’s had while working in government and reflected on how everyday challenges often lead to future innovations across industries. Brown also emphasized the need to focus on the jobs of tomorrow, a concept of thinking towards the future and the improvement of society through jobs that will address future needs in a proactive and meaningful way.
During his address, Brown also took time to reflect on his St. Michael’s experience, meticulously weaving his SMCS educational formation into the highlights of his career, noting how they helped lead him into his career path.
“The alumni networking event was a fantastic opportunity to hear from an inspiring alumnus – Patrick Brown – but it was also incredibly valuable to connect with alumni from different graduating classes, different industries, and different backgrounds,” says Paolini. “Building new relationships with talented and enthusiastic professionals has been immediately beneficial.”
Following Brown’s keynote address, alumni were treated to an open and lively Q&A, including topics covering government and his career, SMCS, and tips on health and well-being.
“I’m constantly amazed at the success of St. Mike’s grads from politicians to police chiefs,” shares John P. O’Neill ’86, past Alumni Association president.
Towards the end of the event, alumni broke into groups to mingle within their various industries and reflect on work, life experiences, family, and more.
“The strength of our community is in the numbers, and showing up is the first step to make anything happen,” says attendee Alexander Mayhew ’14. “Continued involvement and participation with the school will lead to stronger networks and positive change. School spirit derives from passionate alumni who show the students the impact this institution has on our lives.”
A sentiment shared by many other alumni on their experience with the SMCS alumni network.
Stay tuned for more alumni events coming this year.
For more information or to share suggestions for future keynote speakers, email alumni@smcsmail.com.
Related links: