March 22, 2012

Message from the President 

Hello,

I would like to provide you with an update on the CASWE/ACFTS’ work since the last Annual General Meeting in May, 2011. At that meeting, members approved the adoption of the new Standards of Accreditation (with one amendment). Since then, both the COA and the BOD approved the revised Standards and Procedures on Accreditation. These documents are currently being translated into French, and will hopefully be available to the members in May. At the May, 2011 AGM the members approved the Constitution (with several amendments) and directed the BOD to further consider issues related to committees and caucuses. It was expected that any recommendations regarding additional amendments to the Constitution would be presented at the 2012 AGM. The BOD has incorporated the approved amendments and will present further amendments at the 2012 AGM. The intention is to circulate the Constitution in both official languages, with the proposed amendments to the CASWE/ACFTS members in April, one month prior to the AGM.

In another vein, I am also announcing that I will step down as president of CASWE at the end of the next AGM. There are several reasons for taking this decision. Under my presidentship, and with the continued support of many people, especially those who served on the task forces, CASWE was able to make major changes: the updating of standards and procedures, and the revision of the constitution. As a result of this work, the schools have agreed to increase funding for CASWE, which allowed us to hire an executive director. After my re-election to a second term, I announced that I would stay on the BOD for one year only however the changes were not completed and the Board asked me to stay. So I agreed to complete the work, which is now accomplished. As well, I was elected to the position of President under the old constitution and I believe that the BOD has successfully transitioned to fulfilling its role under the new constitution. Other considerations have also played a part in my decision: I'm in progressive retirement, and during my five years as President, I found I was regularly experiencing work overload. 

Under the new constitution, the president is elected by the Board from among its members and I will conclude my term as past president for the duration of one year. Two other positions will be vacant on the Board, I therefore urge you to follow the call for nominations, and nominate potential candidates.

It is with great pride that I complete my mandate to the Board and members, and I thank you, each and everyone, for the trust you have placed in me and continued support that has made all of this possible. 

March 22, 2012 (bilingual)

December 20, 2011 (bilingual)

June 23, 2011

April 28, 2011

March 7, 2011

February 2011

December 2010

June 2010