David Denison, U of T honorary degree recipient, June 16, 2023

TL;DR

Graduates are encouraged to approach their career plans with openness and flexibility, as personal satisfaction and fulfillment may come from unexpected routes.

Transcript

Chancellor, President, faculty and staff honored guests, graduates, and families. Let me first say how deeply honored and grateful I am to receive an honorary doctor of laws degree from my alma mater and one of the world's preeminent education institutions, the University of Toronto. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend my convocation when I graduated... Read More

Key Insights

• 😑 The speaker expresses gratitude for receiving an honorary degree from his alma mater.
• 👨‍💼 Rotman and U of T graduates are highly valued in the business and finance sectors.
• 🥺 Flexibility and openness in career plans can lead to personal satisfaction and success.
• 👶 Changing career paths can offer new opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
• ❓ Each experience, even if considered a detour, provides valuable skills and perspectives.
• 📁 Graduates should not compare themselves to others on a direct career path.
• 🗯️ Self-discovery and awareness are essential in finding the right career fit.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why does the speaker feel honored to receive an honorary degree from the University of Toronto?

The speaker feels honored as it is his alma mater and one of the world's preeminent education institutions. He was unable to attend his own convocation years ago, making this opportunity special.

Q: What role did the speaker have at the University of Toronto, and how did it contribute to the university's mission?

The speaker served as co-chair of the university's investment committee for 12 years, advising U of T presidents and working closely with the University of Toronto Asset Management organization. UTAM's exceptional investment performance and leadership in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues contributed to the fulfillment of the university's mission.

Q: Why did the speaker hire many Rotman and U of T graduates during his tenure as CEO of the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB)?

The speaker believed that Rotman and U of T graduates were well-educated, well-rounded, self-motivated, talented, and diverse individuals. Their performance validated his confidence in hiring them, reinforcing the interest in continuing to do so.

Q: What advice does the speaker offer to students and recent graduates about their career plans?

The speaker advises students and graduates to approach career plans with openness and flexibility rather than fixating on finding the ideal first job. He shares his own experiences of changing career paths and emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and awareness.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker expresses gratitude for receiving an honorary degree from the University of Toronto and reflects on his association with the university.

• He congratulates the graduates from the Rotman Commerce program and emphasizes the value of their education.

• The speaker shares personal experiences of changing career paths and advises graduates to remain open to new opportunities.