Investing in tomorrow: Calgary business leaders fuel experiential learning at Haskayne

In today’s rapidly-changing world of work, employers are looking for more than just strong grades – they’re searching for graduates who can lead, collaborate and adapt in real time. That’s where experiential learning makes the difference. 

Understanding its critical role in molding students into career-ready professionals, the Haskayne School of Business is committed to integrating hands-on learning opportunities into its programs. By moving education beyond the classroom and into real-world challenges, experiential learning empowers students to apply theory to practice, build confidence through problem solving and develop the professional skills today’s organizations demand. What was once considered a nice-to-have is now essential – experiential learning has become a cornerstone of business education and a launchpad for future leaders. 

One prime example of experiential learning in action is case competitions.  

Students tackle complex problems under tight deadlines, making sense of messy data, negotiating strategy as a team and making tough decisions with incomplete information. Along the way, they learn to think critically, collaborate under pressure and adapt fast – skills employers say are increasingly hard to teach on the job.  

Then comes the moment of truth: pitching their strategy to judges who challenge their assumptions. It’s here that students learn how to communicate with precision, defend their ideas and, when necessary, pivot on the spot. The experience is intense by design. But it’s also transformative.  

Just ask fifth-year Haskayne student, Yalena Sermeno. She was first introduced to the world of case competitions four years ago – and has been hooked ever since. Originally competing as a challenge and business strategy delegate and later serving as vice-president, synergy for Team Haskayne JDC West, she now leads as co-captain – guiding her team to success while mentoring the next generation of competitors.

“At the time, I was looking for a sense of community, mentorship and something that would truly challenge me, and JDC West became all of that and more,” she says. “That initial nudge completely changed the course of my university experience and opened doors I never would have imagined. It has been one of the most defining parts of my time at Haskayne.” 

She adds, “Being co-captain has pushed me to lead with empathy and accountability. Having been in the competitor’s seat, I know the stress and self-doubt students face, so I strive to be the kind of leader who listens first, supports consistently and gives feedback rooted in care and growth. These experiences have shown me that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, but about creating an environment where others can shine.” 

One million reasons to invest in experiential learning 

Two Calgary-based real estate leaders who understand the importance of being nimble, thinking strategically and adapting to industry’s ebbs and flows are Peter and Justin Mayerchak. Partners at Colliers Calgary and co-founders of the Mayerchak Group, Peter and Justin have helped many of Calgary’s most prominent leaders solve complicated real estate challenges. Over the past two decades, they’ve guided clients through economic swings, remote work trends and a rapidly evolving marketplace. Their takeaway: long-term success isn’t about avoiding change; it’s about being prepared for it.  

That mindset inspired their generous $1 million investment in experiential learning at Haskayne, establishing The Mayerchak Career Readiness Fund.  

In their view, today’s students won’t succeed on textbook knowledge alone. They need the chance to test ideas, fail fast, collaborate across disciplines and build the kind of strategic resilience that defines modern business leadership. Case competitions, they say, are one of the best training grounds to build that mentality. 

“Calgary’s future will be built by people who can think critically, collaborate effectively and solve problems we haven’t even seen yet,” says Peter Mayerchak. “That kind of thinking doesn’t happen by memorizing theory – it comes from experience.”  

Their gift will expand access to case competitions and other experiential learning opportunities at Haskayne, ensuring more students, regardless of financial barriers, can test their skills on the national and global stage.  

Justin agrees. “In real estate, and in any industry, you’re constantly making decisions with incomplete information,” he says. “I had the privilege of participating in case competitions like JDC West during my undergraduate degree and it had a profound impact on my learning. Case competitions teach students how to think on their feet, work through ambiguity and still deliver a solution they can stand behind. That’s what builds real confidence.” 

For both donors, access is key. “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t,” Peter adds. “If we can remove barriers and open doors to these experiences, we’re building a stronger business community for everyone.” 

Accelerating future-focused learning  

The Mayerchaks’ donation comes at a pivotal time for the business school, with Haskayne recently highlighting future-focused learning and engagement as one of its key priorities in its 2025-2027 Strategic Plan.  

“Experiential learning has long been part of our identity at Haskayne,” says Haskayne Dean Gina Grandy. “This generous gift from Peter and Justin Mayerchak accelerates our vision of giving every Haskayne student the opportunity to engage in meaningful and transformative learning experiences. These opportunities are often turning points in a student’s journey – they build skills, shape career direction and open doors students may never have imagined. They give our graduates a true competitive advantage.” 

Beyond case competitions, the investment will expand access to professional development and career experiences, particularly for students interested in commercial real estate. Beginning this fall, students will take part in Dale Carnegie leadership training, followed by a pilot leadership lab for MBA students in January 2026. The gift will also support the Real Estate Career Symposium, where students can network with industry professionals and gain insights into career paths. Delivered in collaboration with the Westman Centre for Real Estate Studies, the Canadian Centre for Advanced Leadership in Business and Haskayne’s Career Services team, these initiatives will help students across business disciplines develop the leadership, strategic thinking and relationship-building skills needed to thrive in today’s economy.  

“Investing in experiential learning is investing in capable, confident leaders,” says Yalena. “These opportunities give students the chance to prove what they can do, not just list skills on a resume. They provide space to fail safely, learn deeply and discover potential.” 

She adds, “Case competitions have shaped my career more than any other experience in university. Each case introduced me to new industries, new challenges and new possibilities. They taught me not to box myself into one field, but to stay curious and adaptable, all while helping me find clarity in what I value most – collaboration, creativity and impact. They’ve also given me the confidence to pursue roles that challenge me to keep learning, which is something I’ll carry throughout my professional life.” 

Yalena’s journey proves that when students are given the chance to test their potential, they don’t just rise to the challenge – they redefine what’s possible. Thanks to donors like Peter and Justin Mayerchak, that potential now has room to grow.