Dave Ponting

Finding Your Passion

My Business Career

After graduating from Sheridan, I worked for Procter and Gamble in sales. I decided I was too young to have to work for a living, and returned to university for a B.A. in History. (Over the next few years), I worked with the Bank of Montreal, as a sales rep for Nestlé, a Group Product Manager at Noxell Corp (Noxzema), a National Marketing Manager for Crayola Crayons, and an Account Director for McCann Erickson Advertising.

A Change in Direction

While with the ad agency, I started attending University of Toronto at night and achieved a Masters of Divinity degree from Trinity College. I was ordained in 1996 at age 41 and served a small rural parish. In 1999 the bishop wanted a marketer to raise $8 million for the diocese and I was moved from parish life to be the Director of Stewardship and Financial Development for the Anglican Diocese of Niagara. We raised $8.4 million and I learned a lot about donors and charitable giving. In 2004 my first book was published, entitled From Scarcity to Abundance. It’s a theological discussion and practical guide to fundraising for Canadian churches. I have been ordained eleven years at the time of this writing and have found, after much searching, a great career that I love.

Currently, I am the senior priest at Grace Anglican Church in Brantford. My business skills help me everyday in parish life, in the areas of public speaking, volunteer management, strategic planning, and just getting people on board and lined up in support of our vision for the parish.

Advice for a Sheridan Student

It’s been my experience that we find fulfillment and joy when we use the gifts God has given us. So discover your gifts and your passion and go for it. As someone who has had ‘several’ careers I have learned it’s never too late to find your passion.

Current Occupation: Senior Priest, Grace Anglican Church, Brantford