Shaun Guthrie takes on Edmonton Chapter Presidency
Cindy Cripps-Prawak moves into President role in Ottawa Chapter
The Board of the CIO Association of Canada is pleased to announce that Shaun Guthrie, Director of Information Technology at Go Auto, has assumed the position of President of the Edmonton Chapter, and Cindy Cripps-Prawak, ED, Innovation, Architecture and Business Intelligence at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, has been named President of the Ottawa Chapter.
These changes in leadership come to two chapters that are otherwise at very different stages of development. Edmonton was the 3rd chapter to be established in the Association, and has a strong record of building a local network through regular morning gatherings, luncheon events, and some high-profile marquis events, while also contributing at the national level, including hosting the CIO Peer Forum in 2013. With much less history, the Ottawa chapter (started only 2 years ago) has been focused on setting a direction that will bring the region’s unique mix of public and private sector CIOs together in ways that provide benefit to all. Both Presidents look forward to working with board colleagues to grow and strengthen their local CIO networks, while increasing the value of benefits available to members.
In Edmonton, the President position has been vacant for a few months. A number of board members put in extra effort to keep activity in the chapter going. In accepting the position, Guthrie thanked the board members, particularly Rita Lazar-Tippe for filling in during the transition.
In Ottawa, Glenn Alexander noted that he is excited about the future for the chapter. “Some exciting things are beginning to happen. Cindy will take my place on the national board and guide the work being done in Ottawa, bringing excellent leadership to the role. Recent developments related to the some high profile organizations in the area could result in a significant increase in the number of CIOs joining CIOCAN. I will work with Cindy to help enable these opportunities.”
CIO Association National President Gary Davenport expressed appreciation for the leadership and dedication of the board members who have worked hard in both chapters to maintain the strength of the Association. He welcomed the new presidents to their roles, noting that as they take their place on the local boards, they also become members of the national board. “I look forward to working with both Shaun and Cindy. Their skills and experience will bring strength to the local and national boards for the benefit of our members.”