Board Leadership Updates
Eric Friesen has stepped down as Chair of the Board of Directors, concluding the commitment he made to help steer Kingston WritersFest through the Festival’s successful renewal over the past 16 months.
As he leaves the Board, we are deeply grateful for his steady leadership in governance and financial management, and for helping guide the transition to a new Festival Director. While he will be missed at the Board table, Eric will continue to share his time and talents with Kingston WritersFest as a moderator and ambassador.
“My hope for the Festival is that future generations will accept the torch, embrace the passion for sharing ideas about books, and continue to shape the Festival in ways that welcome new voices, new readers and new communities,” says Eric.
Peter Gillespie has been appointed Chair of the Board. As Director of Communications and Business Development for the Downtown Kingston BIA, Peter brings extensive experience in strategic planning, partnership development and public engagement, and a passion for community building.
“I’ve been a sponsor and a fan of Kingston WritersFest for many years and feel so fortunate to have joined the Board last year to assist the other dedicated Board members and volunteers in its inspiring revitalization. I had Eric as an amazing role model this past year and hope to continue the good work he began. I am happy to report that we are now well positioned for growth, with a legacy of success to build on, a deep network of friends and mentors, and an invigorating new Festival Director in Bruce Geddes,” says Peter.
The Board also welcomes Jennifer Foster as its newest member. For the past several years, Jennifer has provided legal counsel to Kingston WritersFest, and her law firm, RBHF, has been a generous patron of Festival authors. In addition to her support of the Festival, Jennifer is an active community leader, providing board and governance oversight to several Kingston organizations, including Ryandale Transitional Housing, WEMA Inc., and The Art of Courage.
“I am so pleased to continue to devote my time and expertise to help Kingston WritersFest grow and thrive. It’s truly one of our community’s most beloved cultural events,” says Jennifer.
More information about the Kingston WritersFest Board of Directors can be found here – https://www.kingstonwritersfest.ca/about-the-festival/board/
If you’d like to volunteer with the Festival, applications and information can be found here – https://www.kingstonwritersfest.ca/about-the-festival/volunteer/volunteer-application-form/
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