The 2023-24 Annual General Meeting (AGM) brought many changes to the RNFOO Board of Directors. Margaret Blastorah’s extended term as President ended as she handed the reins to Janet Montague. Janet brings a wealth of experience as RNFOO’s new President. She has been involved with RNFOO since 2013 and has served as Chair of the Gala Planning Committee and Awards Review Judge. In 2018, Janet joined the RNFOO Board of Directors.
Marg’s gentle, strong leadership through the post-pandemic years was deeply appreciated. Her contributions to the Board will continue as Past-President.
Introducing the approval of the slate of officers for the coming year, Marg expressed deep gratitude to retiring board members May Tao, Krista Kamstra-Cooper, and Marianne Cochrane. Krista’s leadership as President and the mentorship she provided were particularly valuable contributions. May Tao was a board member and member of the Gala Committee for 9 years; her gifts of enthusiasm and positive energy were always appreciated. Marianne Cochrane, who served a remarkable 13 years on the Board was recognized for her dedication to the Awards and Scholarships Committee, which she chaired for 6 of those years.
The presentation of the slate of Board members was a highlight of the meeting. A remarkable 14 new Directors were appointed, bringing the Board to its maximum size of 20 people. The diversity within the new Board is exciting, with a significant increase in areas of nursing represented and more members from outside the GTA. As the Foundation faces the challenge of declining support for charitable organizations, the strength of this team will bring new energy, ideas, and strength to the RNFOO mission: strengthening health care in Ontario by supporting nurses and nursing students.
