The new year – may it be a happy and healthy one for all – sees the induction of a new VWDA committee, elected in November. This is an exciting time in our development because, along with familiar faces, we have some new and enthusiastic committee members brimming with ideas and impressive in their commitment. With the diversity of new committee members and the growth of subcommittees, we begin to see the realization of some of the objectives of the strategic plan, in administration and governance as well as in participation.

The person who has nurtured, cajoled, inspired and led us to this point is Pam Dalgliesh, our founding VWDA President. Pam, who thankfully remains on the committee, has been a mentor to all of us. She has a wealth of knowledge, great networking skills, lots of ideas, and an ability to teach and to draw out the best in us. Thank you, Pam.

Thank you also to our very hardworking inaugural Secretary, Ornella Mourant. She has set up our website, developed the format of our minutes, agendas and newsletters, and contributed in many other areas.

I feel extremely privileged to be working as President with the VWDA committee, and I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting. Please contact me, or any of the committee members, if you are interested in any aspect of the VWDA and its work, or if you feel you would like to participate in any way.

Dr. Ruth N. Paluch
VWDA President
ruthpaluch@hotmail.com