It seems like a very long time since we were all together at an event in the Macleod Auditorium, or at a Spark After Dark, the Waterloo Public Library, or a coffee shop in Mississauga. Not to mention the time we gathered to chat about the science of cheese… with samples!
After the initial shock of postponing all of our great spring events, we began to plan how RCIScience would ride out the pandemic. We thought about what makes RCIScience programs work and what makes them special. Excellence in scientific research is a big thing. But we also strive to highlight the diversity of science in Canada - both the subjects and the scientists themselves. The pandemic highlights how important it is to examine current affairs through the lens of science. It also highlights how important it is that science is communicated well.
Perhaps most important - and the hardest thing to replicate online - is our community. Especially you, our members. One thing that I personally miss is chatting with you as we gather for events, or over tea and cookies afterwards. I enjoy catching up with you and hearing about things you’ve run across in the world of science since we last met. As many of you have pointed out over the years, the best part of a program is the Q&A. How can we translate that lively interaction to an online program?
We hope that our new book club fits the brief. RCIScience Summer Reads promises to give you some interesting science to think about and discuss over the summer. We start with the thought-provoking, Superior: the Return of Race Science by UK-based Angela Saini. Visit the Book Club section of our website to learn more and join the discussion on our new Facebook group.
Membership Extension:
Not since 1919 has RCIScience had to mass-cancel programs. The current situation has also created financial hardship for many. In light of these things, we are offering a blanket extension to all memberships. By unanimous decision of the Board, all members in good standing as of June 30, 2020 will be extended until June 30, 2021.
Those who are able, please consider making a contribution of your usual membership fee and continuing your regular yearly donation. Any contributions received through the rest of 2020 will be considered a donation and a tax receipt will be issued for the full amount.
You may also be wondering how we will hold our Annual General Meeting this fall. So are we! Chances are it will have to be online, but we will wait to see how things evolve before making a definite plan. We will let you know as soon as we do.
Many thanks for sticking with RCIScience and we hope to see you all soon, online if not in person! In the meantime, please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns.
Stay safe and best wishes for a happy and healthy June.
Kirsten Vanstone
Executive Director, RCIScience