Inspiring Young Alumni: Catching up with Connor Emeny ’14
St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) is proud to feature Connor Emeny ’14, a dynamic young alumnus whose relentless pursuit of excellence has taken him across the globe—literally.
From the yellow brick halls of St. Mike’s to completing an Iron-distance triathlon on all seven continents, Emeny has transformed discipline, resilience, and big dreams into a global platform as an athlete, author, and keynote speaker.
Where are you in your career?
Today, I’m a full-time keynote speaker, athlete, and author. My presentations focus on teamwork, leadership, and resilience—lessons drawn from my lived experience becoming the first person in the world to complete an Iron-distance triathlon on all seven continents.
My journey is also the subject of an upcoming feature-length documentary, Chasing Antarctica, which captures the seemingly impossible quest to accomplish a world-first feat and the many roadblocks I overcame along the way.
How would you describe your time at the school?
I attended SMCS from Grade 7 through 12, graduating in 2014. During my time at the school, I immersed myself in co-curriculars and athletics, focusing primarily on hockey and cross country.
I always felt surrounded by greatness. Sharing a gym class with Olympian Justyn Knight ’14 and playing hockey alongside NHL player Jake Evans ’14 set a powerful tone. The calibre of talent around me pushed me to elevate my own standards.
The talent was top notch. That calibre of students encouraged me to be better.
Supported by dedicated teachers and coaches, I built relationships that continue to this day—proof of the lasting brotherhood that defines the St. Michael’s experience.
How have you been involved with SMCS since graduating?
In 2024, I returned to SMCS to compete in the Archangel’s Den Alumni Entrepreneur Contest and took home first place. That win helped propel my expedition to Antarctica and accelerate production of Chasing Antarctica.
How did SMCS prepare you for and propel you into life?
I believe deeply in the principle: to whom much is given, much is expected. It was a privilege to attend St. Michael’s, and I credit many of my professional connections to relationships first formed in those hallways.
I actively try to pay it forward—introducing members of the SMCS community within the business world, supporting younger alumni as they navigate life after graduation, and staying connected through alumni events.
As a keynote speaker, I frequently cross paths with fellow alumni and proudly share stories of my early days at St. Mike’s—a small kid with big dreams. Many of my closest friends are SMCS graduates, and this year alone I’ll be celebrating three of their weddings.
How do you live out the Basilian motto of Teach me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge?
As a former student-athlete, I vividly remember our hockey team’s motto: “Relentless pursuit of victory.” That mindset continues to guide me today.
The Basilian motto, Teach me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge, resonates deeply in my work:
- Discipline is foundational—showing up every single day, especially when you don’t feel like it.
- Knowledge comes from experience, setbacks, and constant learning.
- Goodness is reflected in how I serve others through inspiration and connection.
Learning to show up every day is what separates the best from the rest.
What are some of your plans for the future?
We are releasing a feature-length documentary titled Chasing Antarctica this year, which shares the seemingly impossible quest of a world-first feat and all the roadblocks it took to make it happen.
How are you being the best for the world through your work and education?
I was recently named one of BCBusiness’ 30 Under 30, recognizing my impact on Vancouver’s community and business landscape. But my greater mission reaches beyond accolades.
My goal is to inspire one million dreamers. The world needs us now more than ever.
Through storytelling, endurance sport, and authentic leadership, I challenge audiences to think bigger, push further, and commit fully to their ambitions.
Do you have any advice for current students?
If you have a dream—go all in on it.
It’s not the titles you receive, but the impact you make and who you become along the way that truly matter.
We are proud to celebrate Connor Emeny ’14 as one of our inspiring young alumni. More inspiring young alumni can be found on the featured wall across from the main office.
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