2024 was a year of both rewarding and challenging experiences. I parted ways with University of Ottawa in the summer after having successfully handled a number of tricky strategic, operational and policy files. Over a year and a half, I reported to three different individuals beginning with the former Vice-President International and Francophonie for eight months, the President for eight months and, subsequently, the new Provost. 

Photo de la retraite du personnel du Vice-Rectorat International et Francophonie en décembre, 2023.

Despite the issues that came my way at uOttawa, I’m proud of the many accomplishments with my team and the cooperation of colleagues, both before and after a major restructuring of my sector in the spring. I’m also grateful for the kind words I received from many of my former employees, fellow senior leaders and other colleagues who expressed they enjoyed working with me and have kept in touch. Thanks to all of them for their continued support.

In July, I was delighted to be invited to Venice to attend Illuminem’s symposium and celebration during the magical Redentore festival as one of the organization’s thought leaders. 

August’s highlight – besides a memorable family wedding – was the opportunity to participate in the 40th anniversary reunion of my House of Commons Page “batch” in Winnipeg. We had a blast!  

Photo: 40th anniversary of the 1984-85 House of Commons Pages on a trolley tour in Winnipeg.

October’s trip to New York City was memorable. I met with and enjoyed the hospitality of fellow food-systems researchers at New York University and City University of New York and attended the Street Heroes Gala. It was also great to reconnect in person with other collaborators in the private sector and at the United Nations. 

Fun at the Street Heroes Gala with Professor Krishnendu Ray (centre) and his students/post-docs and my wonderful husband, Ishkandar Ahmed (in yellow).

In November, I was delighted to announce my appointment to the International Advisory Council of the Centre for Open Societal Systems (COSS) as well as to the Wilson Center as Global Fellow. I’m thrilled!

J’ai aussi eu des beaux moments avec la famille Martineau pour l’étaler des cendres de ma feu mère où elle est née et élevée. Mes remerciements à mes cousin.e.s – particulièrement Marcel, Glenn et Carmaine – et mon dernier oncle maternel toujours en vie, Louis. Un voyage à Legal compte maintenant des murales qui décrivent le parcours de certaines familles qui sont parties de l’Europe pour ensuite s’installer en Argentine avant de faire le trajet en Alberta. C’est des sujets que j’avais abordé avec Radio-Canada et dans une entretien pour le journal La Source à Vancouver en 2018.

Voici des photos de la vieille grange sur la ferme ou ma mère à été élevée – une des années ’50 et l’autre de novembre, 2024.

I write this from sunny Puerto Vallarta where we enjoyed some wonderful moments with friends. I’m grateful for all my blessings given the state of the world. More good news on my end will be announced in the new year. Until then, I wish you and yours happy holidays and all the best for 2025!