Dan Chapman

University of Notre Dame, Mendoza College of Business

“A resilient leader, guided by his values, crafting his life story with intention.”

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

Fun Fact About Yourself: I got my first tattoo at 17 years old and it reads, “Play Like a Champion Today.”

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Western Ontario; Major: Consumer Behavior

Most Recent Employer and Job Title:  CBRE Limited; Title: Sales Representative, Advisory & Transaction Services

When you think of Notre Dame, what are the first things that come to mind? How have your experiences with the Mendoza program thus far reinforced or upended these early impressions? When I think of Notre Dame, one of the many things that comes to mind is the Grotto. To Notre Dame students, faculty, alumni, and visitors, the Grotto is a special place to spend a few quiet moments in reflection. For me, the Grotto has been a place where I can go to reconnect with my WHY and light a candle for my lost loved ones.

Like the Grotto, the Mendoza program encourages students to take the time to reflect. Reflect on their purpose. Reflect on their values. Reflect on how business can be a source for good in the world. From my perspective, that sentiment is what separates Mendoza from other business programs.

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of the Mendoza MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The key part of the Mendoza MBA that led to my decision to attend Notre Dame was the Meyer Business on the Frontlines Program (BOTFL). In the program, students are given the opportunity to leverage their business acumen to address real issues in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. I realize how much of a privilege it is to pursue an MBA; the opportunity to make a tangible difference while I furthered my education was of utmost importance to me. BOTFL serves as a direct medium for students to go beyond the classroom and “grow the good in business” through their studies and travel.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Mendoza? My favorite activity so far at Mendoza has been competing alongside my classmates in Notre Dame’s intramural flag football league. After a devastating double overtime semi-final loss – with a chance to play inside Notre Dame Stadium on the line – we are counting down the days till next season.

On a more serious note, my favorite course so far has been Finance. Out of the core curriculum courses, I was the least confident going into Finance. However, Prof. Battalio did a terrific job of making us feel just uncomfortable enough to experience growth in every single class. He was also able to draw on his own experience to provide unique insights on current events.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment in my career so far is getting brought in as a Partner with the Toronto West Capital Markets Team at CBRE. At that point in my career, I was dealing with health-related issues that were preventing me from performing up to my own standards. So, to be brought in as a partner on a 100% commissioned sales team – consisting of three Vice Presidents and an Executive Assistant – based more on my character and work ethic than my earned commission revenue is something I am truly proud of.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far? My biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far has been getting hired by the Business on the Frontlines Program as a Teaching and Research Assistant. This program, and brand of work, was a major factor in my decision to attend Mendoza. The TA role has provided me with an opportunity to contribute towards BOTFL’s growth and collaborate with similarly motivated individuals on a regular basis.

A close second in terms of accomplishments would be simply finding my rhythm as an MBA student. In other words, finding a way to balance school, networking, my physical and mental health, a long-distance relationship, AND tailgating – all of which in a new country – has taken some trial and error but I have enjoyed every minute of it.

Mendoza is known as a purpose-driven MBA program that asks students to “Grow the good in business.” What is your mission and how has Mendoza been helping you realize it? My mission is to further align my professional career with my values. The Graduate Business Career Development team at Mendoza has been helping me realize my mission by providing me with exposure to a wide array of companies through industry panels and events. My career coach, Patrick Farran, has been a terrific resource in helping me explore all employment opportunities that speak to my desire to create impact on the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit). Similarly, the Mendoza alumni network has also been more than willing to contribute towards my success in any way possible.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into the Mendoza MBA program? My advice to potential applicants is to not shy away from sharing your personal story in addition to your professional experience. Our stories are what makes each of us unique. If you can understand your story, and why Notre Dame and the Mendoza College of Business makes sense for your next chapter, then all you have to do is articulate the truth.

DON’T MISS: MEET NOTRE DAME MENDOZA’S MBA CLASS OF 2023