TIM DUBOYCE

What brought you to Humber and your program of study?

Nearing graduation from the University of Ottawa, I had set my sights on a career in journalism. After weighing various options, Humber emerged as my top choice. With a BA degree in my back pocket, Humber's graduate program in journalism seemed like the perfect fit: smart, top-notch, real-world reporters and editors teaching the trade, and access to a full-term internship program in the media capital of Canada, Toronto. What I did not know until after enrolment was just how much fun it would be. Our tightly-knit class shared strong camaraderie and some special moments as we each pursued our journey together.

What was your favourite Humber memory or experience?

As a journalism student, my goal was to plunge into the world and expose stories in the public interest and that affect people. I got an early start writing for Humber Et Cetera, where I wrote an exposé on student concerns unfolding in one of the other departments. The day my article was published I was running a few minutes late for my newspaper-writing class (ironic, I know). Sheepishly, I tried to casually slip in the door to the classroom which in this case was at the front of the room, not the back. As I entered, the room went silent and 25 sets of eyes were fixated on me. Our prof stopped in mid-sentence, sized me up, and said, "Oh, there YOU are!" He produced a copy of that morning's issue of Humber Et Cetera featuring my story on the front page. "You've caused quite a stir with your work this morning." The story did cause a stir, indeed, leading to changes in the department in question. During the events that followed, the head of the journalism department never wavered in her defense of my work in the face of headwinds coming from her colleagues affected by the story. It was my first experience (and hardly my last!) that journalism done with an equal dose of passion and diligence creates awareness that can lead to meaningful change and bring people together.

What was Humber's greatest impact on your personal and professional life?

The experiences I had at Humber set the stage for countless opportunities to succeed and keep learning throughout my life. I continue to turn to some of the basic principles I learned about the craft, and many of the values that helped guide me throughout my career as a journalist and beyond. If my own abilities, determination and help I've received along the way are what got me to where I am today, my time at Humber was the spark that lit my bonfire.

What are you up to now?

Today I am a self-employed strategic communications consultant operating from my home office in Montreal and serving clients in Quebec, Ontario and beyond. My focus is on helping leaders and organizations tell their story effectively and authentically in order to build trust. This follows a nearly two-decade run as a broadcast journalist, program host, producer and editor with CBC News, and subsequent leadership roles in corporate and non-profit communications. I have had the opportunity to return to Humber from time to time to participate in discussions about journalism and the work I do today. It is always a great thrill to return to campus and meet with students and faculty, to share some of what I have picked up along the way, and to learn from the experiences of other fellow Hawks.

What else do you want to share (e.g. Memorable trip; If you had a superpower; Favourite food or coffee shop; Personal and professional interests; Awards and recognition; Other milestones)?

If I could have one superpower it would be to go back in time to when I was at Humber and tell myself three things. One, focus on the journey, always keep learning, use the time you have to your advantage - the ultimate destination will come soon enough, and it's the same for everyone. Two, be generous with your knowledge and your time - you can make a big difference to others. Three, remember you are more capable than you think - regard your pursuit in journalism less like a race you are trying to win and more like a sculpture you are crafting for the enjoyment and benefit of others.