Global Ivey Day 2026: Purpose-Driven Governance

Why It Matters

This conversation signals growing pressure on boards and executives to integrate social and environmental goals into corporate strategy—reframing purpose as a driver of long-term value and risk management rather than PR. Mobilizing alumni networks and CEO pledges could accelerate mainstream adoption of purpose governance and influence capital and talent allocation.

Summary

At Global Ivey Day 2026 a panel of business-school leaders and practitioners—moderated by Eric Sarvala and featuring Coro Strandberg, Mona Malone, Wana Bronzai and Ducia—debated purpose-driven governance and how companies can embed social and environmental purpose at the core of strategy rather than treating CSR as side activity. Strandberg traced the field’s evolution, described practical tools she developed to move boards from philanthropy to purpose-led business models, and outlined the Canadian Purpose Economy Project’s efforts to scale that shift. The event also launched Ivey’s #calltopurpose on LinkedIn, inviting alumni, leaders and CEOs to publicly declare organizational purpose and pledge implementation. Panelists emphasized governance, measurement and leadership as critical to turning declared purpose into measurable impact.

Original Description

This session launched the "Declaration of Purpose" online marathon, inviting the Ivey community to share their purpose and connect across generations and career stages.                Moderator: Eric Saarvala, EMBA ’17, Head of Corporate Sustainability, Raymond James Limited

Panelists:

Mona Malone, HBA ’94, Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer and Head of People, Culture & Brand, BMO Financial Group

Coro Strandberg, Chair of the Canadian Purpose Economy Project

Oana Branzei, Professor of Strategy & Sustainability, Ivey Business School

Dusya Vera, PhD ’02, Professor of Strategy & Executive Director, Ian O. Ihnatowycz Institute for Leadership, Ivey Business School