St. Lawrence College Retirees Association
Annual General Meeting
Empire Boardroom
May 16, 2018
The AGM was hosted once again by St. Lawrence College in the Empire Boardroom. The social time prior to our meeting, along with a beverage and good company, was enjoyed by all attending.
These minutes were taken by Anne Breault, Secretary, St. Lawrence College Retirees Association. Item numbers refer to the accepted agenda.
#1. Welcome and Opening Remarks from President, John Anderson
John thanked everyone for taking time to attend this 2018 AGM. It has been his pleasure being part of this strong core group. We have a full agenda scheduled today, along with elections.
#2. Adoption of Agenda:
Moved by Ruth Tracy Seconded by Nancy Sudak Carried.
#3. Approval of Minutes of the 2017 AGM:
Moved by Ian Wilson Seconded by Ruth Tracy Carried.
# 4. Update on College Building Project – Rob Zuback for Gord MacDougall
Gord was called away at the last minute for a campus matter. Rob, on behalf of Gord, stated they are committed to help the Retirees Association keep involved with the College.
A short video from Gord on the building project indicated that:
There will be an open house in the fall, date TBA. Retirees will be invited. The enrolment of international students is growing and is expected to benefit the College financially in the future. St. Lawrence is now a partner with Canadian College in Vancouver, with 500 students. We now have offices in Brazil, China, Columbia, along with other places around the globe.
Rob held a short question and answer following the video. Campus tours may be offered over the summer. Response to the five year Fundraising Campaign has been tremendous, with a deadline of August for the Kingston Campaign. The Provincial Government has supported library improvements at all three campuses
Those attending today were encouraged to visit this campus library and view the renovations.
4 Retirees Fund Update - Ian Wilson
The target of $50,000 for the College 50th Anniversary goal was met and exceeded. The retiree group has donated a total of $133,000 to the College since 2014. 933 gifts given, 14 nonbursary funds, supported 36 student awards, and over 200 students. Ian provided donation forms for pick-up.
5. Membership and Treasurer’s Report - Clare Rayner
Before she began, Clare was given a special “thank you” for holding this position for the past 13 years.
Clare stated we have a record number of members (120) 43 of whom are life members. A complete breakdown and list of members is on file with the minutes.
As of May 16, 2018 the Association has a bank balance of $3284.50. A financial summary has been posted to our website. In the past we have made an annual donation of $300.00 to St. Lawrence College Foundation to benefit the student population. Those attending agreed to make a $300.00 donation again this year. Moved by Ruth Doran Seconded by Nancy Sudak Carried
Clare suggested that in addition we give $100.00 annually to a worthy community organization and recommended that we begin by giving to Dawn House Women’s Shelter this year.
Moved by Paul Van Nest Seconded by Ruth Tracy Carried
Wanda Williams suggested that along with financial support, members could consider volunteering their time working at a community charitable organization.
6. Social Convenor’s Report - Dick Tindal
Dick reported on a well-attended coffee gathering in April, another planned for the fall, and the 19th Hole social events. If members wish to organize something, it can be publicized through our email list and website. Should you wish to suggest other events, contact Dick.
7. Report on Association-College MOU Meeting - Nancy Sudak
Present: Rob Zuback, Gord MacDougall, Clare Rayner, Bill Kirby, Nancy Sudak
Report on items discussed: Gord gave a briefing on the current college building project (further details about which were presented during this AGM). Rob reported that 46 college employees had retired over the past two years (23 each year), with only 13 of them completing the form that gives permission for the college to share their contact information with our Association. Finding ways to connect more effectively with new retirees remains a continuing challenge. Rob is going to prepare a report on strategies that would better engage those contemplating retirement.
Information was shared on funds contributed by retirees in support of students (and was also presented by Ian at this AGM). Rob indicated that he can track the annual trend of money given by retirees.
Upcoming college activities of interest to retirees include the Annual Learning Conference and, as part of it, the years of service recognition – to be held on May 29 at 4 pm. Information on those being recognized on that date can be found at the Association website (www.slcretirees.weebly.com). Deceased staff. Rob will continue to supply information as passed along from HR. Our website will be updated when information is received.
Possible roles for retirees. Don Young has been made aware of the possible interest of retirees in meeting with/helping International students with English conversation. The terms of the MOU will be reviewed once the new Association executive is chosen.
8. Pension Ponderings – Dick Tindal
Following up on information emailed earlier, Dick reminded members of the fact that the Pension administrators had decided, in spite of the improved financial position of the fund, not to restore the indexing for years of service prior to 1992. Indexing was suspended beginning in 2014. He emphasized the significance of this continuing loss of indexing (covering three-quarters of the years of employment of many). It will erode our purchasing power over the years, if/when inflation increases from its prolonged low spell.
9. Election of Executive Officers - Dick Tindal
Dick announced that several positions were open because of the retirement of John Anderson (President), Clare Rayner (Treasurer) and Vincent Durant (Webmaster). He presented a slate of candidates and also invited nominations/declarations from the floor. There being none, the following executive was confirmed for the coming year. New Executive: Nancy Sudak, President Pennie Carr-Harris, Vice-President Thelma Mott, Membership and Treasurer Anne Breault, Secretary Dick Tindal, Social Convener Ron Kelly, Webmaster Bill Kirby, Founder
10. Volunteer Opportunities for Retirees – Nancy Sudak, Ruth Doran, Wanda Williams
Nancy volunteers at Martha’s Table and there are a number of positions there needing volunteers. She provided brochures on this organization and information on it is also at our website.
Ruth explained that international students at the College often need help learning to converse in English. Association members could help by agreeing to meet some students informally, such as over coffee, just to chat. Those interested should contact Rob Zuback ([email protected]) who will then follow up with Don Young.
Wanda volunteers at Good Way Thrift Store on Division Street. All proceeds made from donations go directly back into the community and the organization also helps to give people job skills. Volunteers as well as donations are needed and information on this organization is also found at our website.
11. New Facebook Group – Wanda Williams
A secure group Facebook page for St. Lawrence College Retirees, is operating at Brockville and Cornwall. Wanda is working with Janet Robertson to set up the same for Kingston retirees. This is a closed group for members only. Dick will email details and instructions on how to request joining this group. It will be open to all retired college employees, not just members of our Association – although it is hoped that this Facebook group may be a way of connecting with non-member retirees and encouraging them to join us.
12. Adjournment and Lunch – 12:00pm
These minutes were taken by Anne Breault, Secretary, St. Lawrence College Retirees Association. Item numbers refer to the accepted agenda.
#1. Welcome and Opening Remarks from President, John Anderson
John thanked everyone for taking time to attend this 2018 AGM. It has been his pleasure being part of this strong core group. We have a full agenda scheduled today, along with elections.
#2. Adoption of Agenda:
Moved by Ruth Tracy Seconded by Nancy Sudak Carried.
#3. Approval of Minutes of the 2017 AGM:
Moved by Ian Wilson Seconded by Ruth Tracy Carried.
# 4. Update on College Building Project – Rob Zuback for Gord MacDougall
Gord was called away at the last minute for a campus matter. Rob, on behalf of Gord, stated they are committed to help the Retirees Association keep involved with the College.
A short video from Gord on the building project indicated that:
- Phase 1, Health Simulation Labs, is already open and operating
- Phase 2, Welcome Centre and Innovation Centre, is also open
- Phase 3, Large Gym, Student Pub, Fitness Centre, and Indigenous Centre will be open by this fall.
There will be an open house in the fall, date TBA. Retirees will be invited. The enrolment of international students is growing and is expected to benefit the College financially in the future. St. Lawrence is now a partner with Canadian College in Vancouver, with 500 students. We now have offices in Brazil, China, Columbia, along with other places around the globe.
Rob held a short question and answer following the video. Campus tours may be offered over the summer. Response to the five year Fundraising Campaign has been tremendous, with a deadline of August for the Kingston Campaign. The Provincial Government has supported library improvements at all three campuses
Those attending today were encouraged to visit this campus library and view the renovations.
4 Retirees Fund Update - Ian Wilson
The target of $50,000 for the College 50th Anniversary goal was met and exceeded. The retiree group has donated a total of $133,000 to the College since 2014. 933 gifts given, 14 nonbursary funds, supported 36 student awards, and over 200 students. Ian provided donation forms for pick-up.
5. Membership and Treasurer’s Report - Clare Rayner
Before she began, Clare was given a special “thank you” for holding this position for the past 13 years.
Clare stated we have a record number of members (120) 43 of whom are life members. A complete breakdown and list of members is on file with the minutes.
As of May 16, 2018 the Association has a bank balance of $3284.50. A financial summary has been posted to our website. In the past we have made an annual donation of $300.00 to St. Lawrence College Foundation to benefit the student population. Those attending agreed to make a $300.00 donation again this year. Moved by Ruth Doran Seconded by Nancy Sudak Carried
Clare suggested that in addition we give $100.00 annually to a worthy community organization and recommended that we begin by giving to Dawn House Women’s Shelter this year.
Moved by Paul Van Nest Seconded by Ruth Tracy Carried
Wanda Williams suggested that along with financial support, members could consider volunteering their time working at a community charitable organization.
6. Social Convenor’s Report - Dick Tindal
Dick reported on a well-attended coffee gathering in April, another planned for the fall, and the 19th Hole social events. If members wish to organize something, it can be publicized through our email list and website. Should you wish to suggest other events, contact Dick.
7. Report on Association-College MOU Meeting - Nancy Sudak
Present: Rob Zuback, Gord MacDougall, Clare Rayner, Bill Kirby, Nancy Sudak
Report on items discussed: Gord gave a briefing on the current college building project (further details about which were presented during this AGM). Rob reported that 46 college employees had retired over the past two years (23 each year), with only 13 of them completing the form that gives permission for the college to share their contact information with our Association. Finding ways to connect more effectively with new retirees remains a continuing challenge. Rob is going to prepare a report on strategies that would better engage those contemplating retirement.
Information was shared on funds contributed by retirees in support of students (and was also presented by Ian at this AGM). Rob indicated that he can track the annual trend of money given by retirees.
Upcoming college activities of interest to retirees include the Annual Learning Conference and, as part of it, the years of service recognition – to be held on May 29 at 4 pm. Information on those being recognized on that date can be found at the Association website (www.slcretirees.weebly.com). Deceased staff. Rob will continue to supply information as passed along from HR. Our website will be updated when information is received.
Possible roles for retirees. Don Young has been made aware of the possible interest of retirees in meeting with/helping International students with English conversation. The terms of the MOU will be reviewed once the new Association executive is chosen.
8. Pension Ponderings – Dick Tindal
Following up on information emailed earlier, Dick reminded members of the fact that the Pension administrators had decided, in spite of the improved financial position of the fund, not to restore the indexing for years of service prior to 1992. Indexing was suspended beginning in 2014. He emphasized the significance of this continuing loss of indexing (covering three-quarters of the years of employment of many). It will erode our purchasing power over the years, if/when inflation increases from its prolonged low spell.
9. Election of Executive Officers - Dick Tindal
Dick announced that several positions were open because of the retirement of John Anderson (President), Clare Rayner (Treasurer) and Vincent Durant (Webmaster). He presented a slate of candidates and also invited nominations/declarations from the floor. There being none, the following executive was confirmed for the coming year. New Executive: Nancy Sudak, President Pennie Carr-Harris, Vice-President Thelma Mott, Membership and Treasurer Anne Breault, Secretary Dick Tindal, Social Convener Ron Kelly, Webmaster Bill Kirby, Founder
10. Volunteer Opportunities for Retirees – Nancy Sudak, Ruth Doran, Wanda Williams
Nancy volunteers at Martha’s Table and there are a number of positions there needing volunteers. She provided brochures on this organization and information on it is also at our website.
Ruth explained that international students at the College often need help learning to converse in English. Association members could help by agreeing to meet some students informally, such as over coffee, just to chat. Those interested should contact Rob Zuback ([email protected]) who will then follow up with Don Young.
Wanda volunteers at Good Way Thrift Store on Division Street. All proceeds made from donations go directly back into the community and the organization also helps to give people job skills. Volunteers as well as donations are needed and information on this organization is also found at our website.
11. New Facebook Group – Wanda Williams
A secure group Facebook page for St. Lawrence College Retirees, is operating at Brockville and Cornwall. Wanda is working with Janet Robertson to set up the same for Kingston retirees. This is a closed group for members only. Dick will email details and instructions on how to request joining this group. It will be open to all retired college employees, not just members of our Association – although it is hoped that this Facebook group may be a way of connecting with non-member retirees and encouraging them to join us.
12. Adjournment and Lunch – 12:00pm