Growing Edmonton's Future
From exceptional teaching and learning to innovative research and community engagement, the Alberta School of Business has established itself as an international business leader.
This is in part due to support from partners and organizations within the community and around the world, such as the recent three-year gift from Canadian Western Bank (CWB)—a national financial institution with roots firmly tied to Edmonton and its future.
“We believe we have a role to play in supporting community efforts, like those of the Alberta School of Business, that are enriching business people of today and tomorrow so we all have an opportunity to contribute to economic prosperity,” said Lacey Jansen, program manager, community engagement with CWB.
The organization’s gift will support three areas within the School: the Family Enterprise Leadership Series at the Alberta Business Family Institute (ABFI), the Graduate Certificate in Business Fundamentals for SME’s (a new program launching in Fall 2021 that will offer courses for small and medium enterprises) and several undergraduate student clubs.
As an institution, CWB exists to help grow and strengthen business owners and decision makers, said Jansen. With its background of serving small and medium sized businesses, CWB’s gift to both ABFI and the graduate certificate program will help support the School in its commitment to lifelong learning and skill development.
“The Alberta School of Business continues to be strongly committed to our local and provincial economies,” said Dean Joseph Doucet.
“This gift will allow us to continue the work of strengthening family businesses, small businesses and student learning, all of which remain key to Alberta's future.”
As well, CWB has long emphasized the importance of student success in the School, as is evident from its recent gift card donation, purchased in support of Mr. Derk, an independent Edmonton clothing business that was the target of a break-in in December 2020.
With its gift to undergraduate student groups and initiatives—from the Network of Empowered Women to JDC West—CWB echoes the School’s dedication to enhance the student experience and to help create the next generation of global citizens.
“With each one of these relationships we see the potential, innovation and caliber of the students and want to ensure they’re continually supported in their efforts to become business leaders of our country,” said Jansen.
The partnership between the School and CWB also provides an opportunity for students to see the benefits of exploring a career with CWB, she said.
CWB’s relationship with the School goes back more than 30 years, with its first gift to the Rocky Mountain Business Seminar. Since then, CWB has supported the School in various capacities, including attending the Canadian Business Leader Award (CBLA) and ABFI Signature Events, and contributing to scholarships. Some of the organization’s larger gifts have supported the Stan Melton Chair in Real Estate. Currently, Chris Fowler, president and CEO of CWB, sits on the School’s Business Advisory Council.
“The Alberta School of Business places great value on its continuing partnership with CWB," said Sue Chaffey, assistant dean, advancement.
"Together, we have contributed significantly to building leaders of today and tomorrow. CWB has consistently contributed their time, talent and treasure and we give heartfelt thanks and gratitude for their commitment to the School."
