Max Harrison – Contributor

Before arriving at Bishop’s University, Max Harrison had heard whispers about the institution’s strong alumni network, but its impact became clear during his first year, when a cold message he sent on LinkedIn received a response within minutes. Now a fourth-year Business Finance student preparing to graduate this spring, Harrison reflects on his experience with alumni who have proven to be genuine, responsive and deeply invested in students’ success. From that initial interaction, it became evident that Bishop’s alumni community functions not only as a professional network, but also as a mentorship circle, support system and extension of the campus experience. Throughout his studies, Harrison has turned to alumni for career advice, guidance in navigating the finance industry and interview preparation, consistently encountering a willingness to help that he hopes future graduates will carry forward.

Image courtesy of BU Alumni Relations

This past summer, Harrison had the opportunity to connect with several Bishop’s alumni while completing an internship at Mackenzie Investments in Toronto, including Jonathan Verity (BBA ‘07) and Helen Kearns (BA English ‘75). Harrison first met Verity, Regional Senior Vice-President of Sales at Mackenzie Investments, during the application process when Verity noticed that Harrison’s resume photo had been taken in McGreer Hall at Bishop’s. Their conversation quickly turned to shared connections at BU, including BUCS, the SEED Portfolio and the Golden Lion Pub, before his colleague gently steered the two back on track. Although Harrison was not selected for the role at that time, he maintained contact with Verity and was later successful upon reapplying. The two remain in touch, reflecting the lasting relationships fostered through the alumni network.

Harrison also met Kearns, former president of NASDAQ and current Executive Chair at Bell & Kearns Associates, as well as the fourth woman inducted into the Investment Industry Association of Canada Hall of Fame. Despite a demanding schedule, Kearns dedicated 45 minutes of her time to share insights from her career, reflect on her years in Lennoxville and offer guidance that Harrison describes as invaluable. She also facilitated connections with industry leaders shaping the future of the finance industry.

For current students, Harrison emphasizes the importance of engaging with alumni and taking advantage of the knowledge, encouragement and opportunities they offer because they want nothing more than to see fellow Bishop’s students succeed, and they are very willing to lend a hand. While institutions such as McGill University and Concordia University may be known for their size and global reach, Bishop’s has something they don’t; that unmistakable Gaiter-to-Gaiter bond – the kind felt within seconds of meeting someone who has walked the same campus. Harrison hopes to one day contribute to that tradition by supporting future students in the same way he was supported.