Sarah McLean BComm’06
“Where do I start?” was the question weighing on Sarah McLean BComm’06 as her graduation date approached and she prepared to enter the job market.
It’s a feeling many graduates know well, and one Sarah still reflects today. That early uncertainty continues to shape how she approaches leadership and student engagement, while keeping her closely connected to Saint Mary’s.
Today, Sarah is a dedicated leader and volunteer, serving on the Board of Governors where she plays a vital role in shaping the university's strategic direction. Despite her leadership responsibilities, she remains deeply committed to the student's experience and enjoys returning to campus to engage directly with students and the broader university community.
Most recently, Sarah returned to campus as a panel guest for SMUSA’s International Women’s Day event, joining the “Women Leading with Impact” discussion. The event brought together women leaders from a variety of industries to share personal experiences, career insights, and lessons in leadership with students preparing to enter the workforce.
During the panel, Sarah spoke candidly about navigating career transitions, embracing uncertainty and the importance of saying “yes” to the new opportunities, even when the path forward is not fully clear.
“You don’t have to fit into a box or follow a single, defined role,” she told the audience. “Just put your hand up and say ‘yes!’”
For Sarah, post-secondary institutions are environments that help shape people, ideas, and future opportunities. That belief is what continues to motivate her involvement with Saint Mary’s and her commitment to staying connected with students and campus life. Through speaking engagements and governance work, she hopes to encourage students to remain open to different paths as they take their next steps after graduation.
Reflecting on the impact of these experiences, Sarah finds the most inspiration during the graduation season.
“As a Governor, I truly value convocation,” she says. “Witnessing students cross the stage alongside their proud families and supporters, are moments I find both meaningful and rewarding.’
Her journey from an uncertain graduate about where to begin to a leader helping guide the future of the university reflects the lasting connection many alumni continue to have with Saint Mary’s. By sharing her experiences and remaining actively involved in campus life, Sarah hopes to remind students that success does not always follow a single, clearly defined path and that sometimes the most important step is to simply be willing to say “yes.”
Alumni are often invited to speak at student events on campus throughout the year. Those interested in getting involved can contact the Alumni Office at alumni@smu.ca.