Scotiabank is helping ‘open doors’ for Black and racialized students at Laurier through the Career Discovery Program

The Laurier Career Discovery Program is designed to support Black and racialized students across faculties as they navigate career decisions, deepen their understanding of self and develop the skills needed to articulate their strengths in a competitive job market. This program is made possible by generous partner Scotiabank with a gift of $500,000, part of their ScotiaRISE initiative.

Student participants, Laurier staff and leadership and Scotiabank representatives gathered at Laurier’s Career Centre on Monday, January 19, 2026 to celebrate the beginning of the students’ journey.

“Much has been written about the importance of mentorship for Black and Indigenous and other racialized learners. But what really excites me about the Laurier Career Discovery Program is that it goes beyond mentorship to sponsorship,” said Andrea Davis, associate vice-president, equity, diversity and inclusion, speaking at the event. “A mentor … can guide a student to a door, but once they reach the door, a sponsor opens it for them. This is what Scotiabank is doing through this program.”

Alyssa McQuaid was hired in December 2025 as career consultant, diversity programs, to run the program. McQuaid had already started meeting with the students, many of whom were at the event, enjoying the opportunity to celebrate this exciting new program and network with Scotiabank representatives.

At the event, McQuaid said, “One thing I often share with students is that career exploration isn’t about arriving at a single destination. It’s ongoing and evolving. The destination isn’t the point—the growth happens in the moments along the way. Being able to walk alongside students during such a meaningful stop on their journey is something I truly value.”

“Our networking and introductory event with Scotiabank is just the beginning of something great,” says Jessica, a program participant undertaking a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. “As a visible minority, learning that my pathway to knowledge, growth and experience will not be travelled alone is something I never would have imagined.”

“Attending the event gave me a better understanding that there are many people here to support us, which provides me with a sense of stability while completing my education,” says participant Keisha, who is undertaking a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. “Being part of the first cohort makes this experience especially meaningful, as I get to learn alongside others what the program can fully offer and help enhance the experience for future first-year students, something I am very excited to do as a peer mentor.”

The Career Discovery Program will follow this cohort, and future cohorts of students, through the four years of their undergraduate degree, setting them on a path to success in a variety of careers. It activates Laurier’s strategic pillar of inclusive community and future-readiness.

“Connecting students to workshops, conferences and networking events can help create professional development and growth opportunities for students to reach their full potential,” said Shawn Goddard, regional vice president at Scotiabank. “Through ScotiaRISE, we are proud to support programs like the Laurier Career Discovery Program to help build a supportive environment for students to build confidence, foster community and establish a strong foundation for long-term career success.”

Learn more about the Career Discovery Program supported by Scotiabank.