Alumna of the Month: Karen Filbert, Events Management Certificate 2005

Karen Filbert graduated from the Events Management Certificate in 2005, prior to taking the Event program she had completed a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Lethbridge and came to Bow Valley College to enhance her skills so that she could transition into a career in Event Management. In early 2006, not long after completing her program, Karen joined the BVC team as the Special Event Officer in Fund Development. During her career at Bow Valley College Karen has planned and executed several high profile annual events, such as the Golf Tournament and Learn a Better Living Breakfast. Recently Karen has been seconded into the position of Acting Senior Development Officer at BVC and is one of the 2009 recipients of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s Rising Star Award – presentation of this award took place in February at the Annual District VIII conference in Seattle, Washington.
In her spare time Karen also does contract work from her home business, is co-chair of the 2009 National Philanthropy Week committee and is the President of the University of Lethbridge Alumni Association's Calgary Chapter.

1. Name?
Karen Filbert

2. Program and year?
Events Management Certificate, 2005

3. Current position?
Acting Senior Development Officer, Bow Valley College

4. What is your fondest memory of your time at AVC/BVC?
Whenever we (team) got to make the final presentation at a Convention or Trade Show after being up all night to get things together.

5. Tim Horton’s or Starbucks?
Tim’s

6. Who was your favorite instructor?
Too many to name!

7. Chocolate or vanilla?
Vanilla

8. How do you foresee yourself staying connected to BVC?
I feel very connected already, I work here at BVC of course will always be connected being an alumna. As to capacity, as the BVCAA moves forward, I’m sure there will be many opportunities to volunteer.

9. What is your favourite thing to do in Calgary?
That would be shoe shopping and hanging out with friends.

10. What advice would you give to current learners taking the same program you did?
Be strong, be smart, be creative – events are creative by nature, but also detailed and subject to change. You must always have plan B in place (or at least be able to think wisely on your feet).

11. What is your favourite place that you have travelled to?
Greece

Congratulations to Karen on the Rising Star Award!