Alumni Profiles

Welcome to the Alumni Profile Page where every E-Newsletter we feature graduates of Malaspina.

Richard Aisaican (Bachelor of Arts, Major in First Nations Studies, 2001)

Richard’s background and modesty really shine through when you talk to him about his time at Malaspina and his graduate studies. Richard graduated from the First Nations Studies program in 2001 and went on to San Diego State University to complete his Master of Science.

Richard thinks back to Vancouver Island University with fond memories. “I always remember the traditional gatherings and the celebrations we had”. That learning inside and outside the classroom, made the Malaspina experience a very worthwhile and enjoyable one.

Upon graduation Richard applied for a full scholarship to San Diego State University to do his Masters Degree, majoring in Counseling. In 2004 Richard completed his Masters which examined the type of barriers to post secondary education that Aboriginal populations face in the United States and Canada.

The one piece of advice he offers current and future students is “stick with your goals, set small goals that can help you accomplish what you want to get done".

As for what is next for Richard, he has aspirations for completing his PhD in Educational Leadership in the near future and will continue to work as a Vocational Counselor with local Tribes in the San Diego region.

Simon Lazarus (Culinary Arts 1993 and Hospitality Management 1990)

With a great combination of both formal education and training in the kitchen and front end operation of a restaurant, Simon is a proud graduate from two Malaspina programs and is someone who has excelled in the Hospitality field.

Originally from Jamaica, Simon wanted to explore a career within the Hospitality Industry. After completing the Hospitality Management Program he wanted to refine his skills in the kitchen and became a Chef to learn both sides of the industry.

Simon has come a long way after graduating from Malaspina; he immediately began working overseas with the Hilton Hotels in their fine dining establishments. He took advantage of the in-house training programs that Hilton offered to its employees. He has had the opportunity to work in Switzerland, London, Bahamas, and Amsterdam, which has been his home base for the last five years as an Executive Chef.

Now Simon is moving on to become the Area Director of Food and Beverage for Hilton in the UK and Ireland. He will be responsible for food and beverage services for over 75 properties including the Waldorf in London.

He credits Malaspina to with his success by providing a solid base with a real perspective and Chef Instructors with real working experience. If he was to offer any advice to recent graduates from the Culinary Arts Program he would say “be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up”.

Simon assumes his new role as Area Director of Food and Beverage, Hilton UK and Ireland, on November 1, 2006 and the Alumni Office wishes him the best of luck.