Curiosity drives change, fuels new ventures and pushes people to rethink what’s possible. In this issue of Alumni News, we celebrate the dreamers, builders, and risk-takers who took their curiosity to the next step and turned ideas into impact.
Every day, UNB alumni are showing what happens when good ideas meet dedication and support. Like Mike Kennedy (BScF’03, MSCF’06), who uses data-driven solutions to address environmental and social needs; Kumaran Thillainadarajah (D-TME’08), whose tech became a global leader in productivity solutions for food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries; and Ben Scott (BA’06, C-FPD’07), who is redefining how creative work is done inside a modern agency.
But innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes a community that believes in creativity, experimentation and possibility. UNB’s commitment to discovery and entrepreneurship has helped launch ventures of many sizes and shaped leaders who drive change.
I believe innovation and curiosity are mindsets that question whether there’s a better way forward and who might benefit from it. For many people, including our alumni, that mindset starts with empathy and a desire to improve lives. David Thibodeau (BPhil’16) uses sport to advance inclusion and social policy. Julia Dharma Long (BBA’90) supports First Responders’ mental health. And Natasha Martin-Mitchell (C-LS’16, BIS’16, MEd’18) creates spaces where young dancers grow in confidence and a sense of belonging.
As alumni, you are part of this. Whether you’re leading companies, mentoring students, shaping policy, or serving your community, your work is making things better and moving things forward. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our 100,000 Reasons to be Proud campaign. Many of your stories are featured in this issue, online, and in our newsletters, with more to come. We love hearing about your work and the impact you are making. Every accomplishment matters. Each of you is one of the 100,000 reasons we are proud to call you part of the UNB alumni family. Stay connected and keep sharing your stories with us.
Natalie Montgomery (BBA’99)
