VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Alumni make the best ambassadors

After completing his degree (BComm ’07), Jacob Alajajian knew he’d miss Ryerson’s vibrant community. So when he learned in 2009 that Ryerson’s Business Alumni Association needed volunteers, he signed up.

Through various roles – including for the last three years as chair – Alajajian has helped engage commerce graduates by building the association’s website and optimizing its social media use. The result has been better attendance at events and greater interaction between alumni.

“My main mandate has been creating a great network of professionals who can help each other,” Alajajian says.

The volunteer stint has also helped Alajajian evolve his career at Ryerson. Impressed by his contributions plus his work experience – banking and recruitment industries – Ryerson has hired him for multiple roles. He currently promotes Ted Rogers School of Management co-op programs to Greater Toronto Area companies.

“I love that I can represent Ryerson to the business community, because it’s so innovative and entrepreneurial.” — Sharon Aschaiek