Over 35 members and supporters of the JMABC joined the Board and staff for the organization’s Annual General Meeting on November 18, 2020. This evening marked the start of a year of celebrations planned to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the JMABC.

Board President Carol Herbert shared an overview of the many accomplishments of the organization over the past year, expressing gratitude to the dedicated work of Board and staff, and the adaptations the whole team have made to ensure that we continue to fulfill our mandate despite the hurdles of social distancing restrictions.

On behalf of the whole organization, Carol expressed her gratitude to our departing board members: Jerry Berkson, Ralph Swartz, and noted with special thanks the departure of Bill Gruenthal, who is a past president, a board member for the past 22 years, and continues to serve the organization as a member of the Council of Governors.

Past President Perry Seidelman introduced three prospective board members for nomination: Helen Aqua, Lianna Philipp, and  Barb Schober. Members were pleased to welcome these nominations and elect all three to the Board. Each of these new members brings a wealth of experience and skills to the role and each will be a welcome addition.

Many exciting events are planned for the coming year. We hope that you will join us online or in-person for these events and celebrate with us a half-century of the JMABC. To learn about opportunities to sponsor one of these programs or support our work more generally, click here.

Following the meeting, guests gathered (virtually) for an inspiring keynote lecture by Dr. Elizabeth Shaffer, Executive Director of the Residential School History and Dialogue Centre at the University of British Columbia. Read about that event here.