Jason Cassidy, STU Alumnus and President of Endy, Credits Successful Career to Adaptability
Adaptability has been the greatest asset in Jason Cassidy’s professional career.
As the President of Endy, a popular Canadian mattress company known for quality and convenience, Cassidy, BA’11, is responsible for the direction of the business, its growth, and its operations. His role demands strategic thinking, research and analysis, creativity, and leadership—all skills that were developed in his time at St. Thomas and contribute to his professional versatility.
“STU fueled my curiosity and instilled a desire to research, analyze, and formulate clear and concise arguments. These skills are transferable to any job or industry,” he said.
“I’ve held many different roles in my career, at several different types and sizes of companies, and my greatest skill is adaptability—STU helped prepare me for that.”
Finding Confidence and Reaching His Potential
Cassidy came to STU from Whitby, ON, to further his studies and continue his athletic career as a member of the men’s hockey team. When he arrived on campus, he found a community that supported him, professors who saw his potential, and an education that empowered him to explore his interests.
“My arts degree taught me how to be curious and ask questions. My professors knew who I was, what I was capable of, and how to extract the most out of me,” Cassidy said.
“STU was far more than I was hoping for, and one of the better decisions I’ve made in my life.”
Looking back on his time at St. Thomas, Cassidy recalls several professors who inspired him, including Dr. Patrick Malcolmson (Political Science), Dr. Tom Bateman (Political Science), and Professor Philip Lee (Journalism).
“They saw something in me and gave me a bit of extra attention, which I desperately needed at that time academically. I found my academic confidence and became incredibly motivated to not just do well in school but excel,” he said.
“These professors, combined with a small school and great extracurricular activities in journalism showed me what I was capable of and really helped propel me into the working world with the belief I could learn anything, adjust quickly, and add value to any organization.”
Well-Rounded Studies Lead to a Diverse Career
The Journalism program is what drew Cassidy to campus, but he quickly discovered an interest in Political Science and decided to complete a double major. This academic flexibility provided a well-rounded foundation that led to a diverse professional career. Before he began his role with Endy, Cassidy worked in media, content creation, and marketing with brands like Pizza Hut and Tim Horton’s, and founded PORTA—a consumer packaged goods company offering high-quality Italian food.
“I’ve been motivated by learning new skills, taking on jobs that challenge me, and leaning into the unknown. I didn’t know what I wanted to do in life when I came to STU, and I wasn’t forced to pick a lane. That worked out well for me,” he said.
For those just beginning their time at St. Thomas, Cassidy’s advice is to get involved.
“Lean into your studies. Meet as many people in the university as you can. Be open to new ideas and spend your time at STU exploring what the rest of your life could be.”