The University of Winnipeg and the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association (UWSA) are excited to present Let’s Talk Success: Alumni Panel Discussion on Wednesday, February 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Riddell Hall.
All UWinnipeg students and alumni are welcome to attend this inspiring and interactive event that will bring together three exceptional UWinnipeg alumni who will share real-world advice, personal stories, and lessons that shaped their university experience and post-grad journeys.
It’s about creating real conversations and real connections that students can carry forward long after the event ends.
Alan Saji Koshy
Following the panel, students and alumni will take part in roundtable discussions, and have meaningful opportunities for mentorship, networking, and idea sharing.
This event builds on the success of the mentorship mixer held in March 2025, where alumni and students connected through a fast-paced, speed-networking format.
UWSA President Alan Saji Koshy, one of the event’s moderators, says this year’s panel takes the concept even further.
“This expanded format gives us the space to dig deeper into career paths, challenges, wellness tips, and the unexpected turns that shape personal success. It’s about creating real conversations and real connections that students can carry forward long after the event ends,” Saji Koshy said.
Alumni are invited to participate as mentors, offering guidance to current UWinnipeg students who are building their network and exploring ideas for professional development.
Light refreshments will be provided. Students and alumni are invited to learn more and register here.
About the panelists
Andrew Kussy (BA 14, BBA 14)
Andrew Kussy is a fundraising and communications professional who has supported nonprofits both professionally and in a volunteer capacity across Canada since 2013. He holds both a BA in Rhetoric and Communications and a Bachelor of Business Administration from UWinnipeg. Today, Andrew serves as the Executive Director of The Dream Factory, a Manitoba children’s charity that creates unforgettable experiences for children battling life‑threatening illnesses and supports families throughout their medical journeys. Under Andrew’s leadership, the Dream Factory has grown significantly, expanding the number of children they serve from 28 in 2018 to 93 in 2024 and establishing a new child-centered headquarters at 93 Lombard Avenue that strengthens the organization’s presence and impact in the community.
Adrienne Silver (BA 08)
Adrienne Silver is a skilled communications leader, strategist, and problem solver. For more than 15 years, Adrienne has worked at Canadian Blood Services, serving in various communications roles including corporate communications, government relations, strategic communications, and as the lead for the expansion of plasma collection in Canada. Today, she is Manager of Communications, overseeing crisis communication planning, the feedback management office, and media training for all employees at Canadian Blood Services. Adrienne is a proud graduate of UWinnipeg, having completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in 2008 while working as the Weather Anchor at CityTV Winnipeg. Adrienne believes in the importance of quality education and lifelong learning.
Chris Minaker (BBA 04)
Chris Minaker is a seasoned relationship-builder with two decades of leadership experience across the public sector and community organizations. Chris acquired his leadership skills early, when in 2003 he became the president of the UWSA. He graduated from UWinnipeg with a dual major in business administration and conflict resolution in 2004. Chris then obtained a master’s degree in conflict analysis and management at Royal Roads University. He then started working for the Manitoba Government in policy and project management. He has held executive roles at UWinnipeg and The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and is now the Director, Policy, Planning and External Relations at Prairie Economic Development Canada. Today, Chris leads a team dedicated to developing a strong competitive Canadian economy in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Chris’s career focus is building and supporting strong teams and helping to create a culture where everyone’s contributions are valued.
