A Liberal Arts Foundation for Business Success

A philosophy degree might not seem like the traditional path to founding one of Canada's largest seniors' housing and retirement living organizations. For Steve Suske, BA'72, however, his education at King's provided the foundation for a successful career in business, one further strengthened by an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business.

Growing up in Woodstock, Ontario, Suske arrived at King's in 1969 and found more than an education. He found a community that would help shape the course of his career. An engaged student who was involved in campus life, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 1972 before earning his MBA from Ivey in 1977.

Suske credits both experiences with giving him the foundation he needed to succeed. His studies in philosophy and the liberal arts at King's developed his ability to think critically, ask questions, communicate clearly and approach complex challenges from different perspectives—skills he would carry with him into the business world.

“King's gave me a foundation that has served me throughout my career,” Suske said. “It taught me to think critically, ask better questions, communicate clearly, and approach complex challenges from different perspectives.”

Suske combined these skills with a simple philosophy that became central to his approach to business: “look after people's moms and dads beyond their expectations.” For Suske, that people-first approach was his formula for success.

Over more than four decades, Suske has earned a distinguished reputation as an entrepreneur, investor, and visionary, helping shape Canada’s seniors housing sector through innovation, leadership and strategic investment. As the founder of Chartwell Retirement Residences, he helped transform the industry, and through Spectrum Seniors Housing Development Corporation, he oversaw the development of more than 60 retirement residences over a 10-year period.

Today, Suske serves as President and CEO of Suske Capital Inc., a private equity firm that invests in real estate, finance, healthcare, emerging technology and alternative energy. Throughout his career, he has led or advised more than $5 billion in business transactions while continuing to drive innovation in senior living and care.

Alongside his business success, Suske remains passionate about mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. His journey from a philosophy student at King's to one of Canada's most accomplished business leaders reflects the enduring value of a liberal arts education.