Beyond learning the ins and outs of business, Brooke Iannuzzelli’s (BBA ’14) time at Brock taught her how to work hard, dig deep and take risks. A decade after graduating, she’s passing those lessons on to the next generation as a passionate supporter of the University’s co-op students.

Iannuzzelli recently received the 2024 Brock Alumni Co-op Employer of the Year Award, which recognizes extraordinary graduates who have contributed to the success of co-op programs through advocacy and student mentoring.

As a Human Resources Advisor with the City of Welland, she works with Brock’s Co-op and Continuing Education (CCEE) team to co-ordinate the placement of Brock students.

“It’s not just a job for me, it’s something that I am passionate about,” she said.

Iannuzzelli is dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for students to gain practical experience and challenge themselves.

“The students are mature. They get it and take it seriously,” she said, adding that Brock’s investment in preparing students is “noticed by employers.”

Iannuzzelli knows first-hand how important experiential learning opportunities can be. While not a formal part of her undergraduate program, she completed a summer work term placement with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness that helped her apply classroom learning in the workplace and build her professional network.

After graduating, she landed a job at Brock in what is now known as the Office of People and Culture. It’s an experience she credits for launching her career.

While her ability to volunteer her time has varied over time, Iannuzzelli has stayed deeply connected to her alma mater. She is committed to giving back to the place that taught her the value of a network and building relationships — lessons she uses in every facet of her life.

As a member of the Goodman Alumni Network and frequent participant in alumni events, she takes the time to share insights with current Brock students. She says her most common advice is that students round out their personalities by participating in extracurriculars and take risks because the path isn’t always straightforward.

For more information about the Co-op, Career and Experiential Education Awards, visit Brock’s CCEE website.