Jason Ribeiro ʼ12
Faculty of Humanities (History)
Building Bridges Through Basketball
Jason Ribeiro, a multifaceted individual, wears many hats: father, community advocate, and Vice-Chairman & President of the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club. His educational journey has been marked by resilience and transformation.
“I grew up in Stoney Creek, Ontario. Having a top-tier Canadian university in our backyard made becoming a Marauder an easy decision. It also gave me the time to develop and mature as a person before moving away from home for my later degree studies.”
Jason holds degrees from McMaster University, York University, Brock University, and the University of Calgary. However, his path wasn’t always straightforward. As a young student, he faced academic probation, a challenging start that would later shape his character. Despite these early setbacks, Jason’s determination and drive led him to earn his Ph.D. as a SSHRC Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholar. This achievement stands as a point of pride for someone who once struggled academically.
“Dr. Projit Mukharji, a former Assistant Professor in the History Department, was one of the first people to see potential in me and my work. His seminars were incredibly engaging, and he undoubtedly shaped my own teaching style when I began teaching at the high school and university-level years later.”
Jason’s journey was far from easy. A volatile family life and identity struggles pushed him toward a dangerous path during his youth. Substance abuse threatened to derail his life, but a mentor’s influence inspired him to change course. Jason chose sobriety and began to realize his true potential.
A Passion for Leadership and Community
These early challenges ignited Jason’s passion for leadership, community, and family. He believes that adversity shapes character and provides a unique lens through which to view the world. Jason’s career trajectory includes progressively senior roles in global consulting and economic development. His insights are sought after, and he regularly contributes to thought leadership and public affairs discussions in local and national media. As a passionate corporate director and community volunteer, Jason actively serves on boards and committees within organizations like the Alberta Motor Association, Sport Calgary, and EducationMatters. Recently, he received the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, a prestigious honor recognizing his significant contributions to Alberta.
“During my degree studies I had the privilege of working at McMaster Sport Fitness School (SFS), an institution in the Hamilton area since 1977. My time there allowed me to pursue interests that have informed both my personal and professional life: sport and recreation, youth empowerment, and community service. The friendships I developed over those summers with fellow McMaster alumni continue to this day.”
Beyond professional achievements, Jason’s greatest pride lies in the family he’s built. His wife, Dr. Natalie Scime, and their young sons, Matteo and Lorenzo, form the cornerstone of his life. His latest venture, the Calgary Surge, reflects his unwavering commitment to the city he loves. Jason firmly believes that the sport of basketball can unite people and contribute to a Calgary that leaves no one behind.
He shares some advice for current McMaster students:
“My only regret from my time at McMaster was that I didn’t say ‘yes’ to more of the interesting and exciting opportunities the university community offered students. Being a local made me more inclined to do what I knew, often with people I already knew. So, I encourage you to lean in, challenge yourself, and experience everything you can because the value to your personal and professional development will be immense.”
Jason Ribeiro’s journey exemplifies resilience, growth, and a deep-rooted love for community. His story inspires others to overcome obstacles and create meaningful impact.