Welcome to the 52nd annual convention of RTDNA Canada! Last year we focused on going "Back to Basics" and the feedback was extremely positive. In our follow up we heard from the membership that while the annual convention should continue to provide content for those new to the industry it should not ignore those more 'senior' in years.
We have added several sessions this year dealing with management including managing change and managing burnout, two constants in our work life. There are also several sessions dealing with exploiting the use of social media and obtaining maximum returns from the latest technology.
Another part of our mandate as an association is also to help grow the next generation of journalists. Several sessions at this convention have been set aside to accomplish that. In addition, our popular "Five Minutes with a News Director" presents a real hands-on opportunity to provide knowledge to journalism students from some of the best in the business.
So much has changed since 1962 when our association was founded in terms of technology, best practices and the primary delivery systems and platforms for our content. But the whirlwind pace of change has not altered the fundamentals of solid and credible journalism. Our profession still relies on great, spirited reporters; insatiable curiosity; exemplary storytelling and a commitment to delivering award-winning content. It is this content which was recently highlighted at our regional gatherings that will form the focus at our annual awards gala. Excellence in journalism is alive and well and living in the RTDNA.
I would like to thank Dave Trafford and the conference organizing committee for their tireless work and our special partners and conference sponsors for making this event possible. A special acknowledgement as well to all those who have volunteered at the national and regional levels, your input and commitment drives the engine of our association.
We have a lot of work ahead of us but over the next few days let's put aside our competitive differences and salute all our award winners and focus on the many successes and strengths of this organization. I strongly believe that RTDNA Canada can remain a relevant and viable voice for our profession in the future.
Ian Koenigsfest
President, RTDNA Canada
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