News Release12 November 2009 Victoria READ Society elects new board membersThe Victoria READ Society elected two new members to its board of directors and saw Graeme Kirby step in the chair’s position at its annual general meeting Oct. 27. The non-profit literacy organization helps children, youth and adults gain reading, writing and mathematic skills with help from professional teachers delivering individualized instruction. Unique to the Capital Region, READ’s Tuition Assistance program provides tuition support for children and youth from low income households. New on the board are Avrille Gosling and Patty Freeman. Gosling will bring her 37 years of teaching experience in the public school system to the table, while Freeman has 20 years of expertise as a business writer and editor. They will fill positions made vacant by management consultant Myrna Hall and accountant Jo-Ann Zelen, both of whom served on the board for seven years. Hall was chair for four years, while Zelen served as treasurer for three years. Patricia Kimmitt-Huxley, who helped guide READ through a human resources and development process, is also leaving, due to work pressures in the provincial government. READ has also lost board member Gillian Sherriff, who died of cancer on Oct. 28. Sherriff first came to READ as an adult student about 20 years ago, and joined the board in 2006. “Gillian has played an essential role in reminding us why we need to support struggling learners of all ages,” says executive director Claire Rettie. “Our community has lost a strong advocate and a brave spirit.” Her position has not yet been filled. A private memorial service is planned for Saturday, Nov. 14. Kirby, now retired, has a background in finance, planning and project management. Communications consultant Carol Carman is taking on the vice-chair position, while Angus Izard will remain treasurer and Linda Bradford continues as secretary. Retired provincial government deputy minister Maureen Nicholls, food services industry consultant Don Monsour and lawyer Nick Mosky will stay on as directors. The READ Society’s 2009-2010 Board of Directors is:
For more information, please contact: Claire Rettie, MA Ph: 250-388-7225 | Fax: 250-386-8330 | Email: crettie@readsociety.bc.ca |
