Successful Alumni Showcase Inspires Canisius Students to Explore Careers in Marketing and IMC

By:  IMC Masterclass Team

On the evening of April 13, 2025, the IMC Masterclass hosted the Successful Alumni Showcase in Science Hall 1013B, bringing together four accomplished Canisius alumni and 23 current students for an engaging night of storytelling, advice and career inspiration.

Alumni Speakers:Josephine Theal, Director of Meat & Seafood at Target CorporationGabrielle Guzinski, Chief Programming Officer at BuffaloLinkZachary (Zack) Schneider, Founder of Agency 15Luke Tomasik, Account Executive at Odoo

Each panelist shared their unique journey – from college to career – and offered insights into the fields of marketing and integrated marketing communication (IMC). Their stories highlighted the many different paths a graduate in these majors can take, and their advice resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom are still exploring potential majors.

The showcase was more than just a panel discussion. It was designed to help undecided students see the real-world impact of careers in marketing and IMC, and to encourage them to consider joining these programs. It also served as a networking opportunity, allowing students to connect directly with professionals who once sat in the same classrooms they do now.

“We wanted this event to feel authentic,” said Collin Churpita, a student in the IMC Masterclass. “Our goal was to show students that success in these fields is attainable – and that they don’t have to have it all figured out right away.”

The event was hosted by IMC Masterclass students Collin Churpita, Danielle Coulibaly, Hughes Gitego and Jonah Ahrens, who coordinated everything from alumni outreach to event logistics. The evening concluded with food, one-on-one conversations and a small surprise to thank the alumni for their time and support.

The Successful Alumni Showcase was a reminder of the strength of the Canisius community – and the powerful impact that real-world experience and alumni engagement can have on students still mapping out their futures.