2015 Management Alumni Excellence Award - Curtis Probst, BComm'89

Former investment banker turned not-for-profit executive Curtis Probst, who is based in New York, says attending the Haskayne School of Business was “probably the best return on investment I’ve ever achieved.”  

“The Haskayne School of Business gave me an incredible set of skills that served me well in my finance career” which has included putting together over $50-billion worth of deals.  It also gave Probst access a diverse community of UCalgary alumni.

“Calgary grads would probably be surprised to know that there are hundreds of alumni living in the New York area,” he says. “Many are doing amazing things in industry, government, academia or not-for-profit organizations.” Probst, a constant presence and big supporter of alumni events in New York, serves as a member of UCalgary International’s U.S. Regional Advisory Council. 

Reminding alumni around the world that it’s important to stay in touch.

“Whether people stay connected for professional or personal networking, or are driven by a desire to give back to the community, maintaining a close relationship with the university is truly a win-win proposition,” he says.

As well as giving generously of his time, he has also made many financial gifts to the university including his support of the Mary & Ray Probst Memorial Bursary, the Dr. Bob Schulz Business Competition Sustainability Endowment and the N. Murray Edwards Finance and Trading Lab.

While Probst has given much to the school, he is very appreciative of all that the university has offered to him over the years. “Personally,” he says, “I think I got the better end of the deal.”

The Management Alumni Excellence Award is given by the Haskayne School of Business.