What does it take to prepare the next generation of marketers? It starts with learning that extends far beyond the walls of our own educational institutions, gets students engaged in real-world opportunities, and helps them build practical skills for the workplace. The days of students primarily getting knowledge from lectures and textbooks are long gone. One of many ways that McMaster University provides these valuable opportunities are through student-led organizations such as the DeGroote Marketing Association and its annual marketing summit – made possible with support from the CMA NXT fund.
Founded in 2008, the DeGroote Marketing Association (DMA) is the longest-running student-led marketing association at McMaster University. DMA is a collective of like-minded students inspiring, educating, and developing the next generation of marketers.
DMA’s annual Marketing Summit brought together students and professionals from a variety of areas, welcoming attendees from other universities and even local high schools. From Kevin Floether, Director of Marketing & Communications at CBV who discussed the critical role artificial intelligence is playing to Thomas Hamilton, VP of Sales & Marketing at Snuggle Bugz who explored how to build a brand that resonates with the audience. Through engaging presentations and opportunities to ask questions, students were able to learn how these concepts actually translate into practice and adapt in a fast-changing marketing industry.
Summit also brought interactive workshops and fireside panels to discuss consumer-decision making, career development, and going from a marketing strategy to engaging content. These workshops were led by Julia Fedorin, Storytelling Lead at Composio and Amanda Ross, Founder of BrashBeery, who both welcomed attendees to think deeper about the importance of brand storytelling and how it can improve marketing campaigns.
An event like this needs tons of resources to create a welcoming and professional experience for everyone involved. Thanks to CMA’s NXT Fund, DMA was able to provide an informative and memorable event for all students and speakers. This contribution helped make the event possible and allowed DMA to bring these diverse perspectives together for a day of learning beyond the classroom.
This partnership shows the value of investing in student-led organizations that bridge the gap between the academic and professional worlds. By supporting the DMA, CMA’s NXT Fund helped develop an aspiring generation of marketers and build their connection to the broader marketing community.
