As I pen this final message of 2020, two Edmonton-connected Nobel Prize recipients provide a wonderful reminder of how purpose pulls and shapes our life.
University of Alberta scientist Dr. Michael Houghton, together with Dr. Lorne Tyrrell, has led the painstaking work to translate medical research into vaccines and treatments.
And, Brenda Barton, MacEwan University public relations graduate and now country director in Sri Lanka is part of the UN World Food Programme team which was recognized for its work in feeding 100 million people each year in some of the world’s most dangerous regions.
Brenda epitomizes how people in public relations are making a difference well beyond our borders. Her story of a purpose-pulled career serves as a call to bring our talents to needs and causes that are bigger than CPRS Edmonton itself.
As we close out this year, a glance in the rear-view mirror shows how the pandemic shaped the road CPRS Edmonton is on. We dedicated ourselves to innovation and experimentation and held our first virtual AGM on Zoom. We filled the past president vacancy with not one but two wise members in a shared role. An open call for volunteers attracted six enthusiastic members so far, bringing fresh ideas and great energy to programming and communications.
Programs are virtual and free to members with a small fee for non-members. We held 10 events this fall, including a USA election watch party jointly produced with CPRS Calgary. Members in Red Deer and elsewhere are now connecting actively with us. Our finances are in good shape and we are aligning governance with digital and association best practices.
We are looking to 2021 with pragmatic optimism and more great programming tailored for all career stages. Nominations are open for next year’s chapter board and I encourage you to get involved in whatever capacity your calendar permits. The return on your time is so worthwhile!
A holiday shoutout to fellow chapter directors and all members. Together, we are shaping a future that makes CPRS Edmonton resilient and the communities in which we work, live and play better. Make this season a time to refresh, reflect and redefine traditions that bring us close in new, yet timeless ways.
As always, my virtual door is open!
Stay healthy and safe, Lyn