Evan McLaughlin, Lang Scholar Recipient
Program/ major at UofG/ Lang: Management Economics and Finance (Co-op)
Hometown: Timmins, ON
How have you improved your community?
"The pandemic has been tough on everyone. In my roles as President of my high school Student Council, as well as leader of our school's Historical Society, we worked hard to do all that we could towards the betterment of the mental health and well-being of our fellow students during this trying time. We organized special theme days, activities, games, and celebrations to boost the morale of both students and staff. Meantime, our Historical Society meetings continued as Zoom calls, keeping students connected to current events, and to each other. Recognizing that we also have a social responsibility to the community, the student body organized a Christmas Food Drive for the Timmins Food Bank, which benefitted the needy. During high school, I recognized that it's important to become involved in your community. I've helped with the Rogers Media "Ton in a Tundra" Christmas Food Drive, acted as a volunteer TV camera operator for OFSAA basketball and hockey games, and helped with set-up at local events like the Canadian Kayak Challenge, the NOVA Business Awards, and Rock on the River concert."
What does it mean to be named one of the Lang Scholars?
"It is an absolute honour and privilege to be named a Lang Scholar! I was ecstatic when I received the news! It made me realize that no matter where you're from, if you work hard and set your mind to something, you can accomplish anything. I can't wait to meet my fellow Lang Scholars!"
Why did you choose to attend Lang at the UofG?
"I fell in love with the campus and vibe at the University of Guelph. Coming from a small Northern community, I didn't want to feel like I was "just a number", and the University of Guelph has made me feel welcomed, supported, and 'at home'. Lang is gaining quite a reputation in the business field and I totally wanted to be part of it."
How do you think business can be used as a force for good?
"Business shouldn't all be about profit. It should also be about doing what is ethically right. I'm from Timmins, a city dependent upon the industries of mining and forestry. Companies in these industries have a responsibility to leave the land as they found it; to plant trees and rehabilitate the soil. This hasn't always happened in the past, as companies have made profits and left communities with environmental disasters. Business should also be about giving back - providing safe working conditions for their employees, and helping to make their communities strong and vibrant."
What are your career aspirations?
"Although I don't know quite yet where my career may take me, I know that leadership is something I take pride in; I enjoy helping others achieve a common goal. I also know that my late grandfather would have loved it if I were to follow in his footsteps and become a CPA."
