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This month, we're excited to highlight Vanessa Bonner, Student Community and Engagement Lead at the ß÷ßäÉçÇø 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 ß÷ßäÉçÇø 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 ß÷ßäÉçÇø 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.