Alumni-owned and locally grown

This year’s event builds on the enthusiasm and momentum of last year’s inaugural social, which drew more than 200 USask graduates. The social was introduced as an opportunity to network, reconnect with fellow graduates and college and school alumni representatives, and learn more about the supports, benefits, and services USask offers after graduation. 

The 2026 theme, “Alumni-owned and locally grown,” celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of USask alumni and showcases outstanding alumni-owned businesses in Saskatoon. 

“Behind every alumni-owned business is a story of creativity and determination,” said Kris Brown, associate vice-president, alumni and strategic engagement. “These ventures fuel the local economy, inspire future graduates, and show what’s possible when you invest in your community.” 

Heather Morrison (BFA’08), broadcaster and founder and president of Deliver Your Best public speaking coaching, will once again serve as emcee. 

“When graduates choose to build businesses in Saskatoon, they’re not just creating jobs— they’re shaping the identity of our community,” said Morrison. “I’m honoured and excited to be the emcee for the USask Young Alumni Social once again to help share these stories with our recent graduates who have similar aspirations.” 

Joining Morrison for a fireside chat panel session will be fellow alumni Bob Deutscher (BComm’10), Naomi Hansen (BA’17), and Natasha Vandenhurk (BA’07). 

Deutscher, a leading commercial food photographer in Saskatoon, works with major clients such as Federated Co-operatives Limited and owns Bob Deutscher Media. He will also lead a food photography demonstration for attendees. 

Hansen is an award-winning author and food columnist. Her debut book, Only in Saskatchewan: Recipes & Stories from the Province’s Best-Loved Eateries, earned her two 2023 Saskatchewan Book Awards, including Book of the Year. Her second book, Building a Sustainable Kitchen: A Practical Guide to Prioritizing the Planet from the Heart of Your Home, will be published in April 2026. 

Vandenhurk is chief executive officer and co-founder of Three Farmers Foods. She partnered with three southeast Saskatchewan farmers to realize her vision of bringing healthy, wholesome, and locally sourced foods to the marketplace. 

Admission to this year’s event is $20. In addition to the program, featuring the panel discussion, greetings from new USask president and vice-chancellor Dr. Vince Bruni-Bossio (MBA’10, PhD’21), and the food photography demonstration, attendees can enjoy food and drink, samplings of Three Farmers products, networking opportunities, swag, prizes, and more. 

Get tickets for the USask Young Alumni Social.