The Capilano University Alumni (CUAA) is a global network committed to providing our graduates with life-long learning, support and inspiration.
The Capilano University Alumni Association (CUAA) board is led by a group of dedicated volunteers who make up our Board of Directors and ensure that alumni voices are represented throughout the university.
Learn more about our Board members and our vision below.
Matthew Smith is the National Sales Manger at W3 Solutions/IA Service Plan, a division under the umbrella of the IA Financial Group – Canada’s fourth largest insurance company.
As a CapU Business Administration grad, Smith is very excited to now be a part of the CUAA Board, and to have the opportunity to connect and serve other alumni and students.
Smith enjoys a very active lifestyle and loves to hike, ski, snowboard and backpack in the mountains of BC.
Chris Carnovale is a graduate of, and presently an educator in Capilano University's School of Tourism Management.
At CapU, Carnovale also coordinates and leads the Cambodia/Vietnam Field Schools.
He has a breadth of experience in the education, marketing and communications, hotel and accommodation, food and beverage, and adventure tourism sectors.
Carnovale has been involved in a variety of international community-based and tourism-related projects in Vietnam, China, Tanzania, Paraguay, as well as in Canada's Arctic; all in some way in partnership with CapU. These experiences and projects are testament to his passion for tourism, community, international development travel and, of course, the university.
Carnovale is a new dad, and is eager to develop how he contributes to the North Vancouver community he and his family are a part of.
Kate graduated from Capilano University with a Bachelor's Degree in Tourism Management and Diploma in Outdoor Recreation Management, focusing on special events and their positive impacts on communities. In 2015, she was awarded the Tourism Industry Professionals Award of Excellence, an honor given to outstanding students in a tourism program.
While completing her degree, Kate dedicated her free time to volunteering at events such as the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival, Whistler Cornucopia, and TED, among others. In her final year at Capilano University, she served as Vice President of Student Life.
After a successful career in the event industry, Kate returned to CapU as an employee. She currently excels as the Student Success Facilitator, where she is dedicated to representing students and addressing their needs.
Sina Moazeni is a filmmaker, a Creative BC team member, and a Capilano University Documentary Filmmaking graduate dedicated to supporting new talent in British Columbia’s film industry by connecting them to valuable resources and opportunities.
As the founder of Helz Pictures Inc., Sina helps emerging artists tell their stories visually and break into the B.C. film scene by overcoming common industry barriers.
His multi-disciplinary education, which includes an MS in Industrial Engineering, a BM from the Tehran Music Conservatory, and documentary training from Capilano University, gives him a unique approach to storytelling, blending technical and creative expertise.
As a member of the Capilano University Alumni Association board, Sina is excited to give back to the community that shaped him and inspire and empower the next generation of creative minds.
Alvaro Calderon is a creator and a creative professional at heart. He defines himself as an entrepreneur, author, musician, producer, and marketer. He has a bachelor’s degree in Communication Science and a Post Baccalaureate in North American Business Management from Capilano University.
His professional experience consists of more than 25 years of producing content for television, events, and shows and operating businesses related to advertising and production.
Calderon is the co-founder of the Mexican company Nacion de Ideas, established in 2010 and Alive Creative, an advertising and communications company based in Vancouver.
Calderon is keen to apply artistic concepts to communication strategies to provide a holistic, fresh, and unique approach to the way people and markets interact.
Savannah’s passion and specialization is in the application of organizational psychology and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the workplace. In recent years, she has worked in the nonprofit sector, leading organizational change and positive growth.
Savannah’s interest in psychology and supporting communities in need has led her to working with the B.C. Youth Forensic Psychiatric Services, SFU’s Culture & Development lab, and co-producing and delivering a youth mental health outreach and education campaign with Family Services of the North Shore. Her original research on empathy in modern society was presented at the Capilano University’s Research Symposium and SFU’s Researching the Globe symposium.
Savannah’s MSc in Organizational Psychology from the University of London (UK) focused on the impact of the modern work week and built upon her BSc Communications and BA Psychology. Her current postgraduate research focuses on the intersectional experiences of neurodivergent individuals, women and the LGBTQ2S+ community in relation to modern working environments and shifting societal norms surrounding work philosophy.
In addition to her academic and applied experience in psychology and communications, Savannah is also well-versed in DEI initiatives, nonprofit management, talent development, organizational change and project management.
Andrew is a proud graduate of Capilano University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 2007.
In 2009, Andrew founded Advantage One, a cutting-edge telematics consulting agency that has grown to support some of the world’s largest fleets. In 2016, Andrew expanded Advantage One into the U.S. market, relocating to New York City to drive growth and innovation.
In 2023, after partnering with private equity investors, Andrew continued his role as CEO of Advantage One, leading the company in delivering advanced solutions focused on fleet safety, sustainability, and machine learning for fleet health.
Beyond professional pursuits, Andrew enjoys travelling, exploring new technologies and spending quality time with his wife and two young daughters.
As a board member of the Capilano University Alumni Association, Andrew is passionate about fostering connections and supporting the growth and success of CapU graduates.
Emily Walmsley has over 20 years of experience in the Canadian financial services industry, with extensive knowledge of product management, compliance, marketing, strategy development and leadership.
She currently works as Principal Product Manager, Retail Lending & Insurance at ATB Financial.
A firm believer in lifelong learning, Emily earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (Marketing) and a Professional Communications Certificate from Capilano University.
She holds the designations of Fellow of the Credit Union Institute of Canada (FCUIC) from Dalhousie University and both the Certified Product Manager (CPM) and Certified Digital Product Manager (CDPM) designations from the Association of International Product Marketing & Management. She also completed the Post-Experience Master of Management program at the University of British Columbia Okanagan in August 2024.
Emily’s community volunteer work includes serving as a consultant to new immigrants, university students and community members seeking assistance in pursuing higher education and navigating life in Canada.
She currently sits on Senate at Capilano University as the Alumni Representative and previously served as a member of the Capilano University Alumni Association Board of Directors from 2016-2021, including two years as Vice-Chair. In addition, Emily previously served as a Board Director for the Justice Institute of B.C. Foundation from 2021-2024, with roles including Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Investment sub-committee.
Leadership, mentorship, and entrepreneurship are three core values that have intrigued Ritika Rana since childhood.
Inspired by her family, where both her parents and siblings have their own independent businesses, Rana pursed an education in the School of Business at CapU and graduated from North American Business Management Post Baccalaureate program in 2020. She is now working as a Management Analyst.
As an international student new to Canada, Capilano University provided a wonderful study abroad experience for Rana. She is thrilled to be part of the CUAA Board to help reciprocate the love, caring and advancement efforts that the university provided her as a student, to now support our alumni community.
Rana enjoys art, nature and people. She spends her leisure time learning more about different people and perspectives, painting canvases and being active in nature.
Christina graduated from Capilano University with a Bachelor's Degree in Communications. After graduating, she gained extensive experience in the consumer goods industry, building a reputation in business development, account acquisition, and outside sales management. Currently, she is pursuing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University.
Christina's unique blend of a business background and her experience as a former ultra-marathon runner ignited her passion for promoting mental health and holistic well-being. As a mental health advocate, she wholeheartedly endorses a "people-first" approach, empowering individuals to bring their authentic selves to the forefront, thereby fostering deeper connections, purposeful living, and collective success.
An enthusiastic explorer, Christina constantly seeks fresh experiences, whether in distant global destinations or amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
About the Board of Directors
The Alumni Association inspires to support and develop our members, foster student success and celebrate achievements within our communities.
Integrity
Alumni Pride
Lifelong Relationships
Support and Engagement
Community Stewardship and Service
Authentic and Quality Student Experience
The alumni representative to the Senate ensures that alumni have a voice at the table when discussing educational policies and producers. Emily Walmsley currently sits on the Senate as our alumni representative.
The Senate is established in conformity with the University Act of British Columbia and is responsible for policies concerning student evaluation, withdrawal, academic standing, appeals, grading, awards for excellence and curriculum content.
The Board of Governors obtains advice from Senate on a variety of matters.
The alumni representative to the Board of Governors ensures that alumni have a voice at the table when discussing and directing affairs of the university, and when setting policies in accordance with the University Act of British Columbia. Amina El Mantari currently sits on the Board of Governors as our alumni representatives.
The Board is responsible for the management, administration and control of property revenue, business and affairs of the University.
If you are interested in getting involved with the CUAA please review the governing documents and information package below and submit your CV and Expression of Interest to alumni@capilanou.ca.