Words from the President Elect Jane McGowan to the Canadian Red Cross Annual General MeetingJune 17, 2006
Thank you, Madame President, for giving me a few moments to speak to the Annual General Meeting.
I am truly honoured to have been elected President of The Canadian Red Cross Society. The Red Cross, its mission and its values are very dear to me; and very important.
Since becoming a governance volunteer in 1996, I have had the privilege of knowing and working with five Presidents.
Janet Davidson was our President in the late 1990’s and as we all know, has represented the Canadian Red Cross, here and internationally, continually and faithfully since those days, now being the Vice Chair of the Standing Commission of Red Cross and Red Crescent. Her commitment and integrity inspire me.
Gene Durnin followed her into the Presidency and lead us with compassion and caring through very difficult and trying years. We all remember his heart-felt apology to the victims of the blood tragedy – a defining moment and turning point in the history of the Red Cross in Canada.
I recall vividly the leadership of Armand de Mestral and his driving determination that institutionally we make the dissemination of International Humanitarian Law a national priority.
Then, of course, there was Bob Barnes, who we all love and respect, who masterfully chartered our course through the years of CCAA and in his gentle endearing way, mentored us all in humanitarian values and service.
And finally, Kate Wood, whose calm yet confident guidance has helped us successfully address such complex issues as by-laws and membership.
I have learned from and been inspired by all of these excellent leaders, Red Crossers through and through - humanitarians in every possible sense of the word. It is my hope, that with your help and support, I will be able to continue to carry the proud torch of the presidency over the next two years.
There are many goals and a number of objectives that I would like to realize during my term as your President. First and foremost among these, however, is to come to know you, to visit you and to witness first-hand the humanitarian services being offered by you to vulnerable people across Canada in the name of the Red Cross. Being President is more than chairing meetings of the Board of Governors. It is rolling up one’s sleeve, chipping in wherever possible, and lending a helping hand.
I pledge to be there for the Canadian Red Cross and I pledge to stand beside you as together we face challenges, open doors, and make a difference at home and abroad.
Thank you.
