Okanagan College Media Release - Feb. 11, 2008

Nick Arkle

Nick Arkle, one of Kelowna’s most committed humanitarians and recipient of Okanagan College’s 2007 Distinguished Alumni Award, will share his insight and perspective on the importance of relationship building and social responsibility with the Okanagan’s top business minds next month. 

The Okanagan College alumnus will headline the 29th annual Okanagan Business Students’ Association (OBSA) Business Banquet, which will take place in Kelowna on March 13 at the Grand Okanagan, beginning at 5 p.m.

Arkle was honoured earlier this year by Okanagan College as the Distinguished Alumni Award recipient based on his longstanding history of professional accomplishments, as Chief Forester of Gorman Bros. Lumber Ltd., as well as for his civic contributions, which have produced far-reaching results on a local, regional and international scope.

The event begins with a cocktail hour followed by a four-course meal with wine and finishes with the keynote address by Arkle. Tickets are $75, and are available by calling 762-5445 ext. 4745 or emailing OBSA@okanagan.bc.ca.

The Business Banquet provides an excellent opportunity for current business leaders to network with future business leaders in the Okanagan. Arkle’s involvement with the Okanagan Partnership, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and United Nations will make for an exciting perspective on local and international business.

“We are thrilled to have Nick Arkle as our keynote speaker this year because he brings such a fresh perspective and outlook on business,” said Tia-Toni Wilson, banquet director. “Through his professional service, volunteer work and representation as an Okanagan College Alumnus, Nick serves as an excellent example of the importance of mentorship within the business community, social responsibility and relationship building.”

Okanagan College business students organize the banquet as a way to connect with the valley’s business and community leaders and as a means to introduce students to prospective employers and colleagues. They take care of every aspect of the event from ticket sales to marketing and event management. One hundred per cent of the net proceeds from ticket sales go toward scholarships to support Okanagan School of Business students.

“With a reputation and history spanning nearly three decades, the OBSA Business Banquet is a mainstay for the business community,” said Dr. Jayne Brooks, Dean of the Okanagan School of Business. “There is significant community support for the event, including sponsorship from the Certified General Accountants’ Association and 101.5 SILK-FM.”

The banquet has a history of showcasing top business minds. Last year’s speaker was Diane Buckner, host of the CBC’s Dragon’s Den. Prior to Buckner, David Chilton (author of the Wealthy Barber) led the 2006 banquet.

For tickets or more information about the OBSA Business Banquet, please call (250) 762–5445 ext. 4745, or email banquet director Tia-Toni Wilson at obsa.banquetdirector@gmail.com.