Message from the President
 Welcome to the Fall 2011 issue of IHPME Connection. Many of the stories you will read in this issue are focused on transformation. That theme seems particularly apt in light of the Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation’s recent metamorphosis into an institute (learn more about that exciting change in this issue).
To get the ball rolling, I thought I would, on behalf of the Executive Committee of your Society of Graduates (SOG), share with you with some updates on our work over the past several months.
Education Committee
In the Spring/Summer 2011 issue of our newsletter, I wrote briefly about the success of Education Day. I want to acknowledge here that this event was made possible through the outstanding leadership of the Education Committee, co-chaired by Pat DeBrusk and Leslie Sorensen.
Pat and Leslie have served for five years on this committee, and we are grateful that both have chosen to remain members of the Executive Team. Thank you, Pat and Leslie, for your hard work and leadership. We are very fortunate that Jodeme Goldhar has stepped up to become the Education Committee’s new chair. Welcome, Jodeme!
OHA Convention
As we are every year, the SOG was privileged in November to share the Longwoods Publishing booth at the Ontario Hospital Association convention. We appreciate Longwoods’ generous invitation so much, as participation gives us a wonderful opportunity to re-connect with fellow alumni.
Strategic Plan
Thanks to the able leadership of Jodeme Goldhar and Anne Wojtak, our Society now has a new draft strategic plan, which will soon go out for broad consultation with alumni, students, and faculty. I believe this plan, which emphasizes connecting and social networking, will be a great help to the SOG as we continue to grow and become ever more vibrant.
Annual Recognition Dinner
The SOG hosted our Annual Recognition Dinner on 13 October 2011. As usual, it was an immense pleasure to welcome the Silver Anniversary Class.
A great deal of work went on behind the scenes to make the evening such a success. In particular, I want to acknowledge here Sid Stacey’s presentation of our financial report and sponsorship efforts, as well as Corinne Berinstein’s selection of the winners of the SOG’s awards.
Happy Holidays
I am looking forward to another outstanding year of SOG-led activities in 2012 – opportunities to learn, network, and have fun together.
Meanwhile, I wish you and your loved ones a relaxing and happy holiday season.
With kind regards to all,
Sue VanderBent
SOG President |
