Dear Members, Partners, Colleagues and Friends of EDCO,
As I approach the halfway point of my term as President, I would like to take a moment to thank EDCO's many committee volunteers, EDCO staff and my fellow Directors for their commitment and dedication to advancing EDCO's programming and partnerships and to strengthening our organization.
In the spirit of report card season, on behalf of the Board and staff I am pleased to highlight some of our achievements thus far:
Organizational Governance- As we mature as an association of professionals with more than 1,000 members and as we develop more strategic partnerships, the Board is drafting several policy and governance improvements to strengthen the way we do business.
Career Development/Education - Ryerson University has announced plans to launch a new certificate in Local Economic Development in September. Seneca College launched a new Sustainable Planning and Development certificate program which includes a Planning and Economic Development course led by former EDCO Director, Doug Lindeblom. EDCO's Board and CEO participated in the development of the Ryerson and Seneca certificate programs.
Stakeholder Relations- EDCO's newest standing committee is actively reaching out to partners and elected officials and government leaders to promote the economic development profession, develop strategic and meaningful partnerships, and expand our reach and capacity.
Northern Ontario Spring Symposium - EDCO's 2nd annual spring conference aimed at connecting northern and southern Ontario economic developers took place in Thunder Bay in May.
2018 EDCO Conference - In response to record-setting demand, the annual conference is moving to larger meeting space at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. Mark your calendars for February 5-7, 2018. The Conference Committee is hard at work developing the theme and program. Stay tuned for more details.
IEDC Conference - The International Economic Developers Council will hold its annual conference in Toronto on September 17-19, 2017. This is the first time IEDC is hosting its conference outside of the United States. EDCO's CEO and Board members past and present are participating on the Conference Host Committee led by the City of Toronto.
EDAC Conference - EDAC will host its 49
th
Annual Conference,
Board nominations for the 2018 - 2020 term of the EDCO Board of Directors are open until September 15, 2017. I encourage EDCO members to run for the Board as it is a rewarding experience.
As we celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary, I wish you, your families and communities a safe and happy summer!
Warm regards,
Christina
Christina Kakaflikas, 2017 EDCO President
