Cape Bretoner Darren MacDonald (BScK’96) lives and works in Sydney Forks, N.S., but stays connected to Halifax and to Dal through his volunteer positions as alumni rep for the Kinesiology program and Chair of the Cape Breton Alumni Chapter. 

How long have you been a Dal volunteer and in what capacity? 

Darren MacDonald (submitted photo)

Since I graduated in 1996, I’ve been the alumni representative for the kinesiology program. I’ve also served as Chair of the Cape Breton Alumni Chapter from 2013-2017. 

What inspired you to begin volunteering with Dal? 

My life was shaped by my time at Dalhousie, and I want to give back. 

What have you learned or gained from your time as a Dal volunteer? 

Dal has a vast array of proud alum across the globe. 

Please share your best volunteer experience (so far): 

When I returned home from California, I got involved at student recruitment events as an alum. Those were some of the best times I have had as a volunteer. 

What advice do you have for other alumni who might be interested in volunteering? 

Do it! Volunteering is a great way to stay connected to the university and to your peers. 

Do you have any other connections to Dal? 

My sister and I both graduated from the School of Health and Human Performance. 

Can volunteering at Dal have a positive impact on your career advancement? 

One hundred percent! I worked in California with two Dalhousie alumni, and I’ve also recruited Dal interns. 

What is your favourite memory from your time at Dal? 

My mentor, the late John McCabe, was a fabulous teacher and role model. I wanted to follow in his footsteps. 

There are many places you could volunteer – why do you donate your time and talent to Dal? 

I want to give back to the place that molded me.  

Interested in volunteering? Learn more about how you can get involved.