“My best times at university came from being involved in community life. It allowed me to forge friendships, network and meet different people in finance. I even found my first job thanks to meeting someone at an Entrepreneurs Club event,” says Gabriel, now a chartered accountant, CFA and senior portfolio manager at Van Berkom and Associates.
Over his four years at Telfer, Gabriel developed a strong sense of belonging to the school. He also received financial aid to cover almost all of the cost of his studies. Feeling fortunate to benefit from this aid, in 2015, he created the Gabriel Bouchard-Phillips Admission Scholarship, which has been awarded to 12 students so far. “I think that giving back what I’ve received is the least I can do. And these recipients may become in turn very active with the University, in five, 10, 15 years, as mentors or donors, for example. It’s the multiplier effect!” he says.
Gabriel has since confirmed a legacy gift, to ensure that this scholarship exists in perpetuity. “I’m an accountant. We plan things! And it’s important to me to make a substantial donation, since the University of Ottawa has been a major support in my professional career and even in my personal life.”
Through Gabriel’s philanthropic involvement, he can witness up close the growth of the University and its programs. “There’s lots of talent at the University of Ottawa! The students are dynamic and engaged. I’m pleased to see them progress and to be able to pay it forward, whether in time or money.”
Gabriel Bouchard-Phillips is still very passionate about sharing his experiences in finance with uOttawa students as a mentor or event guest, and to contribute in this way to the next generation along with other Telfer School of Management alumni.
