Mount Allison University is proud to announce Elyse Surette-DiMuzio as its new Entrepreneur-in-Residence for the upcoming 2024-25 year. She brings a wealth of experience in digital strategy, marketing, and communications, having worked with some of the most high-profile clients across Canada, the U.S., and beyond. 

As co-founder and Strategic Advisor for Ampersand Social Co., a full-service social media agency based in Moncton, NB, Surette-DiMuzio has helped numerous clients across Canada successfully navigate the digital landscape. She recently expanded her entrepreneurial reach by founding ESD Communications, a strategic communications firm that serves clients in both the U.S. and Canada. 

Surette-DiMuzio has built an impressive career advising government departments, political organizations, candidates, causes, universities, and businesses of all sizes on how to strategically launch, market, and grow their brands online. Her client list includes Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Pete Buttigieg’s U.S. presidential campaign, a major Harvard research hospital, international NGOs, and small-to-medium-sized enterprises. 

“I am excited to be joining Mount Allison as Entrepreneur-in-Residence,” she says. “This is an incredible opportunity to share my passion for digital strategy and entrepreneurship with the next generation of leaders. I look forward to mentoring students and helping them navigate the ever-evolving world of digital marketing and business growth. Mount Allison has a vibrant community and I’m excited to contribute to its spirit of innovation and collaboration.” 

Beyond her professional achievements, Surette-DiMuzio holds an MBA in change management and marketing, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in political science and international relations, providing her with a broad and dynamic perspective on leadership and strategic growth. 

In her new role as Entrepreneur-in-Residence, she will share her deep knowledge of digital strategy and entrepreneurship with the Mount Allison community, mentoring students, offering expert guidance, and helping to foster the next generation of innovative leaders. 

The Entrepreneur-in-Residence program at Mount Allison provides students with unique opportunities to engage with seasoned professionals like Surette-DiMuzio, who bring real-world insights and hands-on experience. Her appointment marks another exciting chapter for the University, as it continues to prepare students for success in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. 

The Entrepreneur-in-Residence, hosted by the University’s Office of Experiential Learning and Career Development, is part of Venture Space MtA Entrepreneurial Thinking Incubator, an online initiative for entrepreneurial-minded students to access training modules, funding opportunities. The project is supported by TD Ready Commitment. 

“We are excited to welcome Elyse Surette-DiMuzio to our campus,” says Director of Experiential Learning & Career Development Rebecca Leaman. “Her diverse experience, entrepreneurial spirit, and insightful approach to communications will be a tremendous asset to our students and the broader Mount Allison community.” 

Mount Allison University’s Entrepreneurship Week will take place from November 18-23, featuring a series of engaging sessions, including one led by Surette-DiMuzio, focusing on marketing and communications. 

On November 23, the program will host The Pitch, where students will present their business ideas or social innovation projects to a panel of judges for a chance to win over $7,000 in cash prizes. The deadline to apply for The Pitch is October 25.

To assist students in preparing for the event, there will be an information session titled "What is the Pitch Competition?" on October 21 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. The session will take place in room MCCN 288. During this session, students will learn more about The Pitch competition and receive valuable tips and tricks from Surette-DiMuzio on how to pitch a business!

Stay connected with updates on upcoming workshops and events throughout the semester by following @entrepreneurshipmta on Instagram our newsletter to stay informed about special events and opportunities for 2024-25: Newsletter Sign-up.