Welcome to spring, and I hope everyone is enjoying the return to milder weather. Those of you on the east coast in particular deserve the break!

Throughout the winter, CIRI staff and the Annual Conference organizing committee – Co-chaired by Brian Ector and Shirley Chenier – worked tirelessly to put together an impressive lineup of speakers for the upcoming Annual Conference. Look far and wide – you would be hard pressed to find a harder working, more focused and determined group of volunteers than this Committee. The lineup they have put together includes Presidents and CEOs, a government minister, a business school professor, several economists, bankers, analysts and fund managers, and a four-time Olympic medallist. The Conference agenda is now final, and all CIRI members should have received a hard copy by mail. It can also be downloaded here: https://www.ciri.org/Education/AnnualConference.aspx.

We are returning to Banff this year, which based on registrations to date, looks to be one of our most popular destinations. In addition to the programs and workshops, the Conference also offers networking events and optional outdoor activities in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Refer a friend to become a CIRI member and receive a $100 credit toward your Conference registration.

Also at Banff, we will be awarding the inaugural F.CIRI distinction – the CIRI Fellowship Program, designed to recognize CIRI members who, by their achievements, bring distinction to the profession and serve as role models for others.

As always, I welcome your comments, questions and feedback on anything CIRI related. I can be reached at mbrown@edrsilver.com or by phone on (604) 640-4804. See you in Banff!