story version
I started my university career sketching nudes (in class), dabbling in new media, reading obtuse art theory, and enjoying western literature. After my undergrad, I spent one year as a sales rep for a major soda beverage bottler (the blue guys). Even though shilling sugar-water wasn’t a career for me, I learned so much from that job – lessons that have never left me.
I decided to go to library school for reasons that still seem somewhat muddy, but Halifax and Dalhousie’s program were a perfect fit. I started my career at the University of Guelph as the liaison librarian for marketing and economics, but through a series of fortunate circumstances I started teaching Information Management (MCS*2020) to 800 commerce students each year – and I loved every second of it (ok, I didn’t always love the grading).
Eventually, I moved on from teaching “InfoMan” and started teaching an introductory course on Entrepreneurship. In my world, entrepreneurship is not just about creating new businesses. It is about thinking and acting like an entrepreneur – wherever you happen to be. Ultimately, this course gave students the chance to learn about and practice the entrepreneurial mindset – something that benefits every organization.
Eventually, I made the jump into management - and it’s been a weird and wonderful journey. I started as a department head and then moved into senior leadership. I am continually amazed by the quality of people that I have been fortunate to work with – and I am so thankful to have had many mentors.
In 2020, I decided it was time for a change and moved the family across the country to join the Okanagan Campus Library of the University of British Columbia. I love working in environments where people are encouraged to try things, suggest ideas, and push the envelope. This cross-country transition also enabled me to get more involved in the Library Leadership Institute (LLEAD).
My 20+ years in libraries gave me great insight into group processes, team culture, and leadership development. Now it is time to do something with this knowledge. In July 2024, I will leave my position to invest more time in developing and growing Thirdway Think - my boutique facilitation, training and consulting company.
-- M.J. D'Elia, June 2024