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This month, we're excited to highlight Vanessa Bonner, Student Community and Engagement Lead at the Alberta School of Business. We learn about her favourite travel destination, hobbies and her best advice for new colleagues!

What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend or day off?

My favourite way to spend a day off would start with some exercise, either a run, bike ride, or going to the gym. After that, I usually find myself at a cafe, spending some devotional time or doing a Bible study. I’d probably wrap up the day by hanging out with friends or family.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Japan! I recently had the opportunity to visit for the first time, and I honestly can’t get enough. The culture, the food, and the night life was incredible, and I look forward to going back!

What’s a book, movie, or TV show you’re currently enjoying?

I’m currently watching Abbott Elementary!

What inspires or motivates you the most in your day-to-day life?

My husband inspires me. In all my husband does, he always gives 100% with such passion and care for others. He has this amazing way of seeing the good in everything and everyone, and after a long day, it’s such a joy and blessing to be around him.

My Life Group also inspires me. Even in their demanding lives, they always put their faith first, and being able to gather a couple of times a week to share life, catch up, and keep each other accountable is so encouraging. They're a constant reminder of peace and perspective when things get busy.

Can you share a bit about your role and what brought you to the Alberta School of Business?

I’m the Student Community and Engagement Lead with the Business Undergraduate Office, where I plan, communicate, and implement events for BCom students, with our biggest event being New Student Orientation. What brought me to the Alberta School of Business is that I completed my undergrad here!

During my degree, I joined a bunch of business clubs and organizations, often taking on roles focused on event planning and marketing. So when this position opened up, it felt like such a perfect opportunity! It gave me the chance to return to a place that’s so familiar to me and now create meaningful experiences for current BCom students, just like the ones I was fortunate to have during my own time.

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with a new colleague joining the school?

There are many staff members in the Business building, so the first couple weeks can feel a little overwhelming when it comes to remembering names and roles, it takes time, so no need to stress! A great way to meet staff in a fun and casual setting is to stop by the lounge on the 5th floor of the Business building over lunch. You’ll almost always find someone from a different department or team there, and it’s an easy, relaxed way to connect and start conversations.