Celebrating our community champions: National Volunteer Week 2025
From April 27 to May 4, Rotman Commerce proudly celebrates National Volunteer Week—a time to recognize the incredible the alumni, students, faculty and staff whose generosity and dedication have helped to shape and strengthen our community. Every act of service is impactful, whether it is by mentoring students, helping to run an event, or sharing career advice. We are deeply proud of our volunteers and for their unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Alumni contributions: leaving a legacy
A strong commitment to reciprocity drives our alumni to take strides to support the next generation of leaders in the spirit of giving back. Through mentorship and community engagement, they are role models of leadership who give generously of their time and experience. Their contributions stand as a powerful testament to their commitment—empowering others, inspiring change, and leading by example.
Evelyn Foo (BCom ‘87) and Andrew Kavanagh (BCom ’10) are two inspiring alumni who have made an extraordinary difference to the RC community through their dedication.
Evelyn is currently the president of EFoo Consulting Inc. and has been a long-time volunteer for U of T. “I find that I always receive more than I give through volunteering. It’s a reciprocal act of engagement and inspiration which energizes from within,” she shares. In recognition of her outstanding service, Evelyn received an Arbor Award in 2019. Her wide-ranging impact across the University includes serving as a mentor, speaker, and facilitator through initiatives such as Rotman Commerce’s Reciprocity Ring, 10,000 Coffees through the Faculty of Arts & Science, and the U of T Women’s Student Association. She currently serves as Treasurer of the U of T Alumni Association.
Andrew, Director of Partnership Marketing at the NHL, actively supports RC as an AMP mentor and career services networking representative and has also been recognized with an Arbor Award. “I thoroughly enjoy volunteering my time to support Rotman Commerce networking events and programming. It’s always inspiring to hear the thoughtful and insightful questions from the students and provide a perspective from my experience.”
Student volunteering: taking initiative
The RC community is built on the spirit and dedication of our student volunteers. RC simply wouldn’t be the same without them! Over the past year, 268 students stepped up to volunteer their talents and energies at around 120 events. From providing consulting for non-profit clients to facilitating events for student life, leading Orientation Week, providing training and guest judging for case competitions, and much more, their involvement are diverse and touched every corner of our community.
Through their initiative and enthusiasm, these students have made a real difference. Their willingness to give back and lead is truly inspiring. We are endlessly grateful to every student who contribute their efforts to help the RC community stay connected and grow stronger everyday.
Faculty and staff engagement: supporting the community
Throughout the year, faculty and staff have stepped beyond their formal roles to strengthen our community in countless ways. From hosting coffee chats, participating in events, and supporting students, their involvement beyond the classroom reflects a genuine passion to the RC community.
Staff, too, have played a vital role—from reviewing award applications and student group proposals to volunteering at networking events through FLC and cheering on students and graduates at milestone moments. These contributions, made alongside their daily responsibilities, help the RC community thrive.
Get involved: leave a lasting impact
Volunteering enriches the RC community, helping everyone in it to grow, connect, and make a lasting impact. Whether you’re an alum, student, faculty or staff member, your involvement helps shape a supportive and lively environment. We encourage everyone to get involved and experience the rewards of giving back. By doing so, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected community together. Once again, thank you to everyone who has volunteered with RC this year; your dedication truly makes a difference!
By Anika Kulathu (BCom ’27) | April 29, 2025
