Dinner—and Support—is Served!

It was a warm August evening when I arrived.  Given pandemic restrictions, the arrangement was to meet on the patio at a local restaurant in the city.  I knew I was there for a special event. My anxiety started to rise as I made my way over to the table… but should I have been anxious?  Definitely not!  There to greet me were five of the eight past presidents of our IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais chapter. 

The Annual Presidents’ Dinner has been a tradition since 2013 when the then-outgoing president wanted his knowledge sharing with the incoming president to include the breadth of experience from the previous presidents as well. It was also a way to explain the history of the chapter and tell stories of chapter experiences.

Since then, past presidents of the IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais chapter have welcomed the incoming President-Elect into their fold in the same fashion, using the Annual Presidents’ Dinner as an opportunity to connect and declare their support.  Stories shared, advice given and laughs all round—what a terrific way for the current and incoming chapter presidents to get to know this team of supporters!

Continuing in the face of adversity has been the dominant theme for the past 18 months.  The continuity brought about through the ongoing support of our chapter’s past presidents has helped our governance team as we navigate these uncertain times. The relationships established through the Annual Presidents’ Dinner gives us the confidence that we can rely on them for their support and knowledge-sharing.  And for that, we are truly thankful.

Nancy Beatson, CBAP

President, IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Chapter