Goodbye, thank you, and perhaps hello again
Dear Colleagues and Friends of the Wellesley Institute,
After over a decade as the Wellesley Institute’s CEO, I have decided to accept a position with another organization. It has been a very difficult decision as the growth, trials and tribulations, collaborative partnerships, and numerous successes of both our organization and that of our partners have consumed me for so many years.
The Wellesley Institute’s core mandate is now firmly the development and production of effective applied research and pragmatic policy solutions and the implementation of our 2013-18 strategic plans will require different management talents. I also firmly believe that every CEO has a “best before” date and good governance requires timely rejuvenation of its leadership.
I have been honoured to have been a part of Wellesley Institute’s exceptional evolution from a defunct hospital to a granting organization, and finally, to a world class think tank. During that time I have been blessed in working with incredible Board Directors, staff, and community, academic, government and business sector partners.
I wish to thank my Co-Chairs, the Board, and our staff for their tremendous and invaluable support over the many years. I have been proud to serve at the behest of this Board, lead a dynamic and talented organization, and help build an Institute which champions positive social change for those who are marginalized, disadvantage and live in precarious situations.
Finally, I wish to thank you for your generosity, support, teaching moments, motivation, and friendship over the past decade. When I entered the non-profit sector from the business world, I had much to learn and you contributed, in your own way, to my ability to lead the Institute. You have made my journey exciting and rewarding and I look forward to perhaps seeing you again in my next endeavour.
I wish you the love of family and friends, the respect of your colleagues, happiness and peace, success in your personal and organizational endeavours, and of course, good health. May you continue to contribute to positive social change and justice for all.
As for me, hopefully I will continue making a small contribution towards building a just society.
Rick Blickstead, CEO Wellesley Institute