Chrissy Potter BComm’24
By Jennifer Ashton
When Saint Mary’s University alumna Chrissy Potter BComm’24 talks about balance, she isn’t just referring to her work as a universal banker at CIBC. She’s also speaking from experience, managing photo shoots in New York and runway shows in Paris. It’s a balance between precision and poise; one she’s learned to navigate with confidence.
Originally from Antigua, Chrissy learned more about Saint Mary’s through a recruiting visit to her island. Through this meeting, the choice became even clearer. Her father was an alumnus, as were several friends and family members. “The pull of family and friends led me here,” she said. “I knew it was a safe space to navigate and figure out what I wanted to do.”
Like many students entering the field of commerce, she initially thought she would pursue accounting. But it didn’t take long for her professors to open her eyes to the wider world of finance. “My great professors cultivated my love of finance. They made it interesting and easy to understand,” Chrissy recalled. That curiosity for financial systems became a launching pad for her professional life, both in the banking sector and beyond.
While her career in finance satisfies her analytical side, modelling gives Chrissy an equally important creative outlet. Signed with Soli Management in Halifax in 2023, she has since walked runways in Halifax, New York and Paris. “My work in banking has encouraged me to find a creative outlet, which I get in fashion and modelling. Each side feeds a different part of me.”
Chrissy is quick to point out that the world of personal banking isn’t as rigid as people might think. “I can tailor my meetings to the personalities of the people I’m dealing with,” she explained. “I get to be myself, and that helps make people feel comfortable talking to you.” This ability to adapt and move easily between corporate offices and fashion studios is a strength.
Her time at Saint Mary’s helped sharpen the practical skills that make this dual career possible. “Time management is a critical component of everything I do. SMU gave me the willingness to learn and encouraged me not to be afraid to ask questions.” That openness, she says, has been key to growing in both industries.
Beyond the classroom, Chrissy found community in the Black Students’ Society, where she served as finance representative on the board. “During the pandemic, it was a great way to connect with people and make friends. It was also a great way to see other Black students and build unity.”
Now, as she looks ahead, Chrissy sees both her career paths continuing to evolve. “Both can take me all over the country, and both offer excellent support systems. As far as intersecting goes, I’d love to share my financial literacy skills with other models. I think they’d see great benefits.”
Her advice to students or alumni with more than one passion is simple: “Just do it. Life is for living. Do what makes you happy. If you pursue your passions, the money will follow.”
It’s a philosophy that has guided her through international opportunities and new creative challenges.
Looking back, she’s proud of the path she’s carved, one that blends professionalism, creativity and authenticity. “Always be reflecting on the things that you’ve done while also keeping an eye on the things you want to do.”
To current business students, Chrissy offers practical advice:
““Take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Take the Canadian Securities Course while in school; it’s a great accomplishment. Network with professors, ask questions, and attend office hours—they welcome this interaction and are great people. Be kind, be authentic and build relationships.””
From balancing accounts to walking catwalks, Chrissy Potter is proof that there’s no one formula for success. With curiosity and courage, she’s showing that you can thrive in more than one world and look good doing it.
This story was featured in the Fall edition of the Maroon + White alumni magazine. Visit the online magazine to read more alumni stories!