Sean Hannon

EMBA in the Beedie School of Business

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

As a husband and father of four, I aim to lead a life centred around continuous learning. It's never too late to learn and grow. Ideally, my constant improvement journey inspires others to embark on their own learning and personal development paths. I hope to support the social service industry for many years to come.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I selected the SFU EMBA program for two main reasons. Firstly, the convenient location and the fact that it offered an in-person experience with peers from diverse fields across the Vancouver area.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I'm enrolled in an executive MBA program that provides comprehensive business-related courses. This setup facilitated learning from knowledgeable instructors and experienced peers representing various industry sectors that I can learn and grow, easily transferable to my current work environment.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

motivational, inspiring, empowering

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

This program, relationship and experience have enabled me to acquire the language and skills necessary to enhance my ability to be a more effective leader in my current professional setting. These acquired skills will continue to support my commitment to leadership in future career opportunities.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I have received an entrance scholarship that has greatly supported me in achieving my goal of getting my EMBA. It has helped alleviate the financial stress of school and life and made me focus on my work, school, and life balance better.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

The relationships you build along your journey are crucial to your development. It's essential to nurture and appreciate these connections if you aspire to be successful in both your professional and personal life.

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I build connections by pushing myself beyond my comfort zone, embracing opportunities to meet new people and gain diverse experiences. Through making the most of my educational journey at SFU, I am continually amazed at the growth and strength of my community as a result of these efforts.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

By scheduling time for both academic and personal and sticking to that schedule. Time not planned in my world does not happen as both are equally important in ensuring you can stay on the journey through completion.

If you could dedicate your research to anyone (past, present and/or future), who would that be and why?

My primary support system is my wife. Without her, managing the demands of school, work, and life would be considerably more challenging. She is pivotal in helping me navigate and balance these aspects of my life as seamlessly as possible.

Contact Sean:sha338@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn