Between Brock’s six regional alumni networks, we’ve hosted more than 15 successful events for Brock grads this year. Even though 2014 is half over, we still have plenty of fun events and opportunities lined up, especially as we gear up for Homecoming, Sept. 18-21. Behind each successful event lies a committee that has helped to plan, organize and execute each experience for you.

Today we are chatting with Jim Dainard (BAcc ’02), a member on the Toronto Brock Alumni Network committee, about his time spent at Brock and how he’s been using his degree since graduating from the Goodman School of Business.

Toronto Brock Alumni Network committee member, Jim Dainard, using his "other side of the brain" as he climbs Mount Kilimanjaro.

Why did you choose Brock?

I chose Brock partially for the academic program (BAcc Co-op) and partially to play hockey.

What is your most memorable experience or moment at Brock?

To be honest, it was everything about the University experience. I had an amazing couple of years living on campus and also had a blast living off campus. Playing sports was a ton of fun. Our program was great; the classes, teachers, fellow classmates and the co-op experiences were unforgettable. I was excited and looking forward to the opportunities a university education brings and Brock delivered.

What do you do now?

Keeping in line with my BAcc, I became a chartered accountant (now called CPA). I’m currently the controller for a gold exploration and development company, Victoria Gold Corp.

Is this the career path you thought you’d be taking upon graduation?

Yes, I think it’s in line with expectations. After my co-op placements, I was getting the notion that public practice and being an auditor might not be my first choice, but that an accounting role in industry would be better suited. I’ve held a number of jobs in various industries that gave me experience and helped me find the right one for me.

Are you involved with community service, charities or associations?

I’ve always tried to give back to the community, even when I was at Brock and there was Helpfest. Since Brock, I have continued with such things as tree planting, charity runs, soup kitchens and being a director on charity and not-for-profit boards. I am currently a director with GlobalMedic, a rapid response disaster relief organization. It’s a very rewarding experience and a win-win for both parties. I get to develop management and directorship skills while helping those in need, and GlobalMedic benefits from my professional training and background as a CPA.

What is the best part of being a Brock graduate?

Becoming a chartered accountant is a very difficult process and I am thankful for the top-notch BAcc Co-op program that was in place. And another thing, and I said this even while I was still at Brock — I love Brock as it is, but I couldn’t be more excited or proud for what Brock is becoming. (I left Brock in December 2001 and the expansion hadn’t begun.)

Why did you get involved with the Toronto Brock Alumni Network?

I have been on social committees with past employers and it was fun, so I thought this would be a great way to help give back to Brock.

What has been your favourite Toronto Brock Alumni Network event so far?

Scotch-tasting last year. There was just something about the host/speaker, one of the best I have ever heard, and of course the scotch was great.

Close to 3,700 students received their degrees this June. Do you have any advice for new graduates?

You don’t know until you’ve tried it. So try new things, take chances, get involved, ask for help and when it works, it works, you’ll know it and be happy.

The Toronto Brock Alumni Network is hosting more events this summer.  Make sure to check brocku.ca/alumni to see the full lineup. Our next event is:

Sunday, July 13
Toronto Zoo Family and Friends Day
We have reserved space at the Toronto Zoo for a Brock Alumni BBQ lunch. Grads and their families will receive a discount on ticket prices.