MEET THE TEAM

ANDREW JOHNSTON

President

The President is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the GES. They are tasked with providing strong leadership for the entire team. Responsibilities of the President include establishing long and short-term goals, allocating funds and resources, and acting as a face of the society.

About Andrew

3rd year, Management student

My passion for Entrepreneurship stems from the belief that you have the ability to make a change in the world. I find it amazing how one can completely change the way in which we do things. Entrepreneurs are able to identify opportunities that no one else would think of. It's creating what can be instead of managing what is.

ANNA HATZINICOLAU

VP of Internal Affairs

The VP of internal affairs reports all internal information directly to the president. They oversee the portfolios for the Director of Events and the Director of Human Resources and their respective teams. Responsible for engaging all team members through internal events to ensure both bonding and cohesiveness of the team.

About Anna

4th year, Marketing Management student

I have always been passionate about entrepreneurship because I love the endless opportunities and the freedom it provides to creative innovators, who strive to bring their visions to life and watch it grow into something largely successful. It is because of entrepreneurship that we have some of the biggest, most widely known businesses around the globe

JENNA FLOYD

VP of External Affairs

The VP of external affairs is responsible for ensuring that all external activities of GES are consistent with the constitution and reports all external information directly to the president. They oversee portfolios of the Director of Corporate Relations, Director of Marketing, and the Brand Ambassador Manager. Additionally, they are responsible for gathering all information spoken about at the Corporate Committee meeting and relaying this information to the President. 

About Jenna

4th year, Marketing Management student

My interest in entrepreneurship sparked during my first year at the University of Guelph. These past four years have provided me with many helpful resources and insight on Entrepreneurship. I have had the opportunity to meet many uplifting entrepreneurs who have inspired me to take on the world of business. These influential individuals have persuaded me to step out of my comfort zone of beginning my own successful venture in the future. 

SARAH MCFARLANE

Chairperson

The chairperson prepares the agenda for the Executive and General meetings and leads all meetings. During meetings, the chairperson mediates the discussion as well as taking detailed minutes. They are also responsible for overseeing the GES email account regularly and supporting all team members as needed!

About Sarah

3rd year, Marketing Management Co-op

Ever since I was little I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, I would sell something at the end of my driveway every weekend when I was younger, and I also love the idea of having complete freedom and control over something that you are passionate towards.

MICHAEL PIOVESAN

Director of Corporate Relations

The Director of Corporate Relations actively seeks both monetary and non-monetary sponsorships from a large and diverse group of organizations for GES through representation on the Lang School of Business Corporate Committee. They are responsible for developing a Corporate Sponsorship Package as well as maintain and further developing relationships with corporate sponsors affiliated with the GES in previous terms. They communicate with industry professionals and organizations to build positive relationships and brand awareness with the Corporate Manager.

About Michael

4th year, Accounting student

I am passionate about entrepreneurship because I enjoy the opportunity to develop my own ideas from the ground up. Working as an individual or team to develop business ideas to ultimately improve life for others offers many exciting challenges. 

JENNA AIELLO

Director of Events

The Director of Events is responsible for organizing, planning and managing GES events. They organize at least one major event in the Fall and Winter semester, collaborating with other team members in order to promote, finance and sponsor the event. In addition, they are responsible for training GES members on event planning and SRM policies. They oversee the portfolios of the Event Managers.

About Jenna

4th year, Marketing Management student

Since I was young, I have always made it a goal of mine to start up my own business. As I have gotten older, I have realized that it isn’t as easy as it may seem. I have worked under an entrepreneur and I recognize how dedicated you have to be to run your own business. Satellite Garden Depot/Centre is a family run business and after being there for 3 years, I have learned many things about how to successfully run a business. There is a different level of hard work that goes into being an entrepreneur and seeing a business grow from the ground up despite the obstacles, inspires me. All in all, seeing others striving for what may seem difficult, encourages me to create something unique and amazing in the future.  

RAJ SOLANKI

Director of Finance

The Director of Finance is responsible for preparing the semester budget, creating an archive of detailed financial records of the GES including balance sheet, statement of income, cash flow statement, bank reconciliation and event breakdown. They also keep track of all cash inflows/outflows into and out of GES. They monitor all spending/purchasing practices and ensuring that the club accounts are financially sound in partnership with the Finance Associate.

About Raj

4th year, Management Economics and Finance student

Entrepreneurs often have the power to enact positive change in the world, be it on a small scale within their local communities or a global scale, and the thrill of bringing into existence an idea, service, or product that could positively impact society is the driving force behind the passion that most entrepreneurs possess. An overwhelming drive to succeed, commitment, dedication, and a focus on improving the general well-being of our communities are among some of the positive traits of an entrepreneur and this association between improvement of the self and of the external world is what makes me passionate about entrepreneurship.

JAMIE BASSETT

Director of Human Resources

The Director of HR is responsible for interviewing and hiring executive and full team members, as well as ensuring that hired individuals are following team policy. They are also responsible for organizing team socials that enhance team morale and help resolve any internal conflict. They ensure GES is operating as a collaborative team and conduct beginning and end of semester performance reviews with each team member.

About Jamie

3rd year, Marketing Management Student

I have had the privilege of growing up in a family where both of my parents have always been entrepreneurs, ultimately exemplifying behaviour that has taught me invaluable lessons, morals and beliefs. In addition, as an aspiring young entrepreneur myself, I currently own and operate my property maintenance business, Student Home Services. I have and continue to have the opportunity to continuously grow and expand the company, focusing and enhancing my client relations, employee management and company financing skills. To me, entrepreneurship is one of the most vital aspects of any economy, and I am devoted to joining forces with like-minded individuals to help collaborate and enhance many people's entrepreneurial prospects.

NICOLA TOURANGEAU

Director of marketing

The Director of Marketing is responsible for developing and maintaining the GES brand, image, and reputation. They are responsible for planning the team's marketing strategy and schedule to promote team events and marketing initiatives. They oversee all external branding and team presence as well as oversee the activities of the Graphic Design Manager, Social Media Coordinator, and Website Developer.

About Nicola

4th year, Marketing Management (Co-op) Student with a Minor in Statistics

I believe that entrepreneurs are creative people who are always eager to learn. I want my career to make the world a better place, inspiring everyone around me to be their best selves. I am passionate about entrepreneurship because I think it is very important to develop initiative, hard work and creative thinking and in order to develop these skills, you need the fixability of your own business. 

AMANDA ODORICO

Director of Academic Affairs

The Director of Academic Affairs maintains contact with individuals and resources to enable students to have easy access to them and updates within Lang Community. They are the liaison between GES and the John. F Wood Centre and the Dean’s Office, having monthly meetings to build the relationship. They work with professors and staff to incorporate GES events into course curriculums. Overall, the Director of Academic Affairs is the direct link between GES and professors, students, and external resources.

About Amanda

3rd year, Hospitality and Tourism Student

I am passionate about starting my own business and I want to make a change in my life as well as in others. I would love to bring more sustainable products and change into the hospitality and tourism industry.

JADEN PARISI

Website Manager

The Website Manager is part of the Marketing team and works in partnership with the Director of Marketing to present GES consistently and professionally. They are responsible for upkeeping the website in accordance with the GES brand as well as creating and publishing updates from the team. This is a creative and communication driven role that provides information about the GES team and is a resource location for students.

About Jaden

3rd Year, Management Economics and Finance Student

I’ve been passionate about entrepreneurship my whole life as I grew up watching my dad who works in business and that passion evolved when I started my own business in 2016, JP Productions.

MUSTAFA HUSSAIN

Brand ambassador Manager

The Brand Ambassador Manager leads the team of Brand Ambassadors and guides them to help promote GES and events held by GES. They are responsible for the hiring and training of the Brand Ambassadors. They also coordinate Brand Ambassador class talks as well as plan campaigns for GES events and initiatives that are to be carried out by the Brand Ambassadors.

About Stafa

3rd Year, Management Student

I’ve always had a passion for business. Growing up, I got a chance to see my dad’s businesses from the inside. I always knew running a business was a lot of work, but I fell in love with the idea of creating my own business one day. I’ve started a drop shipping store this summer with my free time, while simultaneously helping friends of mine do the same. I’m also currently working for the university in a managerial role, and I am the head of social media for the Afro-Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Africa Trade Desk. Being involved with these two start-up organizations showed me different roles within a business and how much work goes into each aspect. It also gave me a chance to shadow successful business owners which was an amazing experience. Overall, I’ve always been passionate about business and that will continually grow.

SCOTT CONCESSAO

Corporate Manager

The Corporate Manager is part of the Corporate Relations team and works in partnership with the Director of Corporate relations. Their main responsibility is to establish and maintain contacts with corporate partners in the community.

About Scott

4th year, Management, Economics and Finance Student

Why are you passionate about entrepreneurship: I believe entrepreneurship is an opportunity to utilize the skills you have acquired over the years through being a student and working different jobs. It allows us to take these skills and put them towards a goal we feel passionate about and in doing so create a successful business out of it.

ABBY KAYS

Events Manager

Event managers are part of the Events team and work in partnership with the Director of Events, they are responsible for overseeing the planning, leading, organizing, and controlling of all events held by the GES. Event managers assist with ensuring an event runs smoothly on the day of and that GES is represented professionally.

About Abby

3rd Year, Marketing Management Student

I'm passionate about entrepreneurship because it gives people the power to create a business centred around what they love. I love GES because it empowers students and gives them the opportunity to learn more about entrepreneurship through real, hands-on experience!

MACKENZIE TERNOWAY

Events Manager

Event managers are part of the Events team and work in partnership with the Director of Events, they are responsible for overseeing the planning, leading, organizing, and controlling of all events held by the GES. Event managers assist with ensuring an event runs smoothly on the day of and that GES is represented professionally.

About Mackenzie

3rd Year Marketing Management Student

Although entrepreneurship can be extremely challenging at times it is just as rewarding and fulfilling

ASHLEY YUEN

Events manager

Event managers are part of the Events team and work in partnership with the Director of Events, they are responsible for overseeing the planning, leading, organizing, and controlling of all events held by the GES. Event managers assist with ensuring an event runs smoothly on the day of and that GES is represented professionally.

About Ashley

3rd Year Marketing Management Student

Entrepreneurship allows you to be creative in your own ways, gives you tools and skills to help create your own business and helps yourself and others become successful.

GRAHAM WILMOT

Finance Associate

The Finance Associate is part of the Finance team works in partnership with the Director of Finance to familiarize themselves with the financial structure of the GES. They are responsible for assisting in the day to day operations of the Director of Finance related to the GES.

About Graham

4th Year, Food & Agricultural Business (Co-op) Student with a Minor in Business Data Analytics

There are amazing opportunities that can be attributed to entrepreneurship. I started my business Boost Senior Assistance when I was 17 and has allowed me to help seniors in my communities with everyday tasks around their properties that will continue to let them be independent in their own homes. The work is incredibly fulfilling and has been instrumental in financing my academic career at the University of Guelph.

NICOLE BEVAN

Social Media Manager

The Social Media Manager is part of the Marketing team and works in partnership with the Director of Marketing to present GES consistently and professionally. They are responsible for communicating GES campaigns and ensuring it is in line with the GES brand. They seek for new social media avenues to market GES events and utilize all platforms of social media to target all marketing segments of marketing. They organize and run all social media platforms by developing and create social media schedules and content to engage with our followers.

About Nicole

3rd Year, Marketing Management (Co-op) Student

I am passionate about entrepreneurship because I love the idea of creating your own visions into a business that you are passionate about and the creative outlets you can share them to.

KRISTEN TYROVOLAS

Graphic Design Manager

The Graphic Design Manager is part of the Marketing team and works in partnership with the Director of Marketing to present GES consistently and professionally. They are responsible for creating logos, graphic materials and advertising for events and any other material requiring graphic branding. They are also responsible for the production of all GES marketing materials promoting GES and our events.

About Kristen

3rd Year, Marketing Management (Co-op) Student

I love the innovation and creativity that goes behind starting one’s own business.

ALINA BARANAVA

Brand Ambassador

Brand Ambassadors promote all events hosted by the GES as well as our partners with the goal of getting as much student engagement as possible. They are responsible for giving class talks, being present at the UC selling tables and conducting promotional campaigns for GES events and initiatives. Brand Ambassadors professionally promote GES and our events by connecting with students on social media and on campus.

About Alina

1st Year, Management Economics and Finance Student

I have always wanted to start an environmentally sustainable business and I am currently working on developing ideas and a business plan. Entrepreneurship has always been the right path for me as I am very passionate about making a change and developing solutions for our planet.

MIKAELA CENITI

Brand Ambassador

Brand Ambassadors promote all events hosted by the GES as well as our partners with the goal of getting as much student engagement as possible. They are responsible for giving class talks, being present at the UC selling tables and conducting promotional campaigns for GES events and initiatives. Brand Ambassadors professionally promote GES and our events by connecting with students on social media and on campus.

About Mikaela

1st Year, Management Co-op Student

I am passionate about entrepreneurship because it gives me the opportunity to be creative and innovative within a business. Entrepreneurship is also one of the most significant forces that influence change in the ever-evolving business world which makes it one of the most exciting and captivating areas of business. My participation in entrepreneurship began in my junior and senior year when I joined my high school’s student run business. I had such an incredible experience being a part of the team, so I knew I wanted to continue my involvement in entrepreneurship at university. 

ALESSA HAAS

Brand Ambassador

Brand Ambassadors promote all events hosted by the GES as well as our partners with the goal of getting as much student engagement as possible. They are responsible for giving class talks, being present at the UC selling tables and conducting promotional campaigns for GES events and initiatives. Brand Ambassadors professionally promote GES and our events by connecting with students on social media and on campus.

About Alessa

3rd Year, Hospitality and Tourism Management (Co-op) Student

I am passionate about entrepreneurship because of the personal side that entrepreneurs put into their work and goals. My parents are entrepreneurs, they built two chocolate and patisserie cafes from the ground up, and to see the level of passion, risk-taking, and genuine energy that goes into their work is inspiring to me. When my brother and I were young, some nights my parents worked so late that we would sleep on giant rolls of bubble wrap at the chocolate factory after school until it was time to go home! In entrepreneurship, I believe that there is an extra level of care that goes into someone's work when it's their own, and I love that. I'm studying hospitality, and creating valuable connections with others is an important part of the industry. I believe that this is similar in entrepreneurship - the ability and desire to create those personal connections through one’s passion to succeed is something that I admire about entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship continues to challenge me to take risks, believe in myself, and has shown me the value and importance of hard work.

JOCELYN HART

Brand Ambassador

Brand Ambassadors promote all events hosted by the GES as well as our partners with the goal of getting as much student engagement as possible. They are responsible for giving class talks, being present at the UC selling tables and conducting promotional campaigns for GES events and initiatives. Brand Ambassadors professionally promote GES and our events by connecting with students on social media and on campus.

About Jocelyn

2nd Year, Management Student

I have always been passionate about entrepreneurship beginning when I was in elementary school watching Dragon's Den with my parents. Entrepreneurship stands out to me because you are in control of how you represent your brand and what you want your brand to stand for. Throughout high school, I have had opportunities to create new products and theoretically pitch them, as well as reach out to local companies for theoretical sponsorships. I love the thrill of your business being entirely in your hands!

DAVID PONTONI

Brand Ambassador

Brand Ambassadors promote all events hosted by the GES as well as our partners with the goal of getting as much student engagement as possible. They are responsible for giving class talks, being present at the UC selling tables and conducting promotional campaigns for GES events and initiatives. Brand Ambassadors professionally promote GES and our events by connecting with students on social media and on campus.

About Dave

3rd Year, Leadership and Organizational Management Student

I am always thinking of ways to benefit myself as well as other people through creating new business or products. The GES is a group full of people who believe in the same thing.