Walking for a cause: Meet Concordia’s 2023 Shuffle advisory committee

Cassandra Lamontagne, BA 12, MSc 16, sustainability advisor

Sustainability manager, Office of Sustainability

What is your favourite Shuffle memory?

Our Shuffle for Climate Justice team took part in the Global Climate Strike on September 27, 2019, and raised $6,000 for a new Leadership in Environmental Sustainability Shuffle Award. There were some organizing elements that I would improve upon if given the chance, but to be able to participate with my colleagues at the biggest climate march in history was a unique and gratifying experience.

How did you get involved in the Shuffle?

In my first year working at Concordia, the sustainability team (now the Office of Sustainability) within Environmental Health and Safety organized a biking contingent of the Shuffle, where we cycled along the bike path between the two campuses. That was a lot of fun — until we realized how early and hungry we were when we arrived!

What’s new about the Shuffle this year?

That we are seeking Sustainable Event Certification for the first time! That means that the Shuffle will be more socially responsible and environmentally friendly than ever.

Sylvia Otvos, alumni engagement

Alumni officer, Pipeline Development, University Advancement

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Shuffle?

I am most excited about captaining the Alumni Women Who LEAD team and walking in solidarity with friends and colleagues. We’ll be raising funds for the Women Who LEAD Student Bursary, which helps students in need.

The Shuffle was my first event at Concordia, and I loved seeing people from across faculties walk together and enjoy lunch at Loyola Campus.

Giving back to the community is so important and even better when you can have fun!

Melissa Rivosecchi, BA 13, GrDip 21, sponsorships

Teaching and research librarian, Social Sciences

Why is the Shuffle important to you?

Being a top 10 Shuffler in the past has always been a great memory for me! I’ve been very proud of the fundraising efforts I have been able to achieve thanks to my network of generous friends and family.

The Shuffle allows me to continue helping students outside of my role as a librarian. I’m looking forward to supporting the sponsorship side of things this year. It would be amazing if I could help get a couple of new companies to sponsor the Shuffle.

The Shuffle is a wonderful event to participate in. I encourage everyone to register with a team or make their own. Have fun and happy Shuffling!  

Ana Milic, volunteer coordination

Student services engagement coordinator, Student Services

Why is giving back to the community important?

I got involved as the volunteer coordinator, leveraging my experience in community organizing. The Shuffle brings together Concordians to create a shared vision of education linked to city-based learning. Giving back to the community is essential since universities can contribute to addressing social issues faced by Montrealers.

Let’s embrace the rich trajectory between the two Concordia campuses, and experience first-hand what it means to be a university connected to our city and support our students.

Sophie Mailloux, volunteer coordination

Department coordinator, Student Services

What encouraging words do you want to share with Shufflers?

It’s a great way to meet new people, and I’m excited to see if we can surpass last year’s goal.

I have heard from students how much Shuffle awards really help them get through difficult financial situations. We don’t always realize the impact that even small gestures or contributions can have on people. Every dollar counts!

Shuffle with us this September. Sign up as an individual or join a team.

Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated — Shuffle 34 is going green!