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From student to confident leader: my McGill story

Jon Hountalas, BCom’84, MBA’91 
Retired Senior Executive with CIBC
Member, Advancement Council

Jon Hountalas

Born and raised in a Greek immigrant family in Montreal, the importance of education was instilled in me at a young age. Attending and graduating from McGill was my primary ambition throughout my childhood.

My experience at McGill proved even more impactful than I had imagined. I arrived as a sheltered and somewhat immature, yet highly motivated student, uncertain of my abilities and potential. I left as a confident young man, with the belief that I could compete and win in an increasingly complex world.

The academic challenges, exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives, and the friendships I formed at McGill changed my life. The world became smaller, my ambitions expanded, and I grew more willing to try new things and take risks. None of this would have been possible without my McGill education.

My ongoing involvement with McGill reflects both my deep gratitude for all it has given me and my family, and my commitment to ensuring it continues to positively impact future generations, just as it did for me.