Empowering the Next Generation of Business Leaders: How Donors & Student Mentors Make a Difference
Schulich Giving Day drives vital initiatives that empower students to excel, including the transformative Schulich Business Excellence Academy (SBEA). Designed to empower equity-deserving high school students, SBEA equips young talent with essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the business world.
Schulich student mentors like Polina Povorozniuk (BBA ’27), have experienced the transformative impact of this program firsthand. Giving Day donors don’t just fund a program; they create life-changing experiences that shape us into capable, compassionate, and connected leaders,” said Povorozniuk. “Without this support, many students like me would miss out on these defining moments.”
For Povorozniuk, SBEA opened career paths she hadn’t previously considered, sparking a passion for strategic consulting that combines her skills and desire to make an impact.
Donor support has allowed Schulich to design new programs, adopt cutting-edge technology, and create inspiring learning spaces, which all drive student career readiness. Contributions to the School’s Highest Priorities Fund fuel these innovations and enable Schulich to adapt swiftly to new needs and opportunities.
“The School’s Highest Priorities Fund is essential for creating a learning environment that goes beyond textbooks, offering real-world experiences that empower students to think boldly and act confidently,” said Povorozniuk. “Programs like SBEA are a prime example of how these initiatives impact students’ lives. They offer mentorship, hands-on learning, and opportunities to tackle real-world challenges, all of which would be difficult to achieve without targeted funding and support.”
Your Impact: Supporting Future Business Leaders
To those who give on Schulich Giving Day, Povorozniuk has a message: “Your generosity is more than financial; it’s an investment in our dreams, in the future leaders, problem-solvers, and change-makers. It enables students to grow beyond academics and learn to think critically, lead with integrity, and envision impactful careers.”
Funds That Drive Change
- Student Support Fund: Helps students overcome financial barriers, providing emergency aid, access to essential resources, and support for international exchange programs.
- Highest Priorities Fund: Supports innovative new programs like the Tech MBA and Master of Health Industry Administration, equips classrooms with cutting-edge technology, and creates learning experiences that enhance career readiness.
- Future of Marketing Institute (FMI) Student Experience Fund: Offers hands-on experience for BBA and graduate interns managing FMI’s digital channels and provides the Future of Marketing Institute Excellence Award to recognize outstanding achievement.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship Fund: Builds a vibrant startup ecosystem with 200+ Schulich Startups, a Venture Studio, and events like the annual Startup Night competition, empowering students, alumni, and community members alike.
To learn more about Schulich Giving Day, including how to contribute, please click here.