228 THE ADVOCATE
VOL. 80 PART 2 MARCH 2022
We also wish to recognize outgoing board member Shaun Foster. Before
law, Shaun worked in information and technology and, by most lawyers’
standards, is a computer genius. During his board tenure, Shaun modernized
our database management. He also managed our website, which we
previously contracted out at some expense. Although his two-year term is
up, we are delighted that he has volunteered to continue managing our IT
systems.
The last group of people who are essential to the VBA’s success are those
with whom I work closest: incoming vice president Niall Rand and our secretary
treasurer Zach Rogers. Without their support and passion, none of
this year’s ambitions could ever come to fruition.
Niall continues his two years of service after being acclaimed our new
vice president at the 2021 AGM. In addition to his ongoing support to the
board, Niall is planning major updates to the barrister’s lounge in the Vancouver
courthouse. That space is maintained and operated by the VBA and,
after a decade, is ready for updated furniture and amenities. Niall’s multiphase
project is sure to keep him busy for his three remaining years with
the organization. It is my pleasure to work with Niall, and we look forward
to leading this year’s board.
Zach Rogers has been the secretary-treasurer since November 2020 and
is a former member-at-large, having served on the board from 2017 to 2019.
The VBA benefits immensely from each year he chooses to dedicate his
time to us. Zach works closely with Shaun and Liene to streamline and modernize
our systems and expand the organization’s capacity to serve its members.
Many thanks to Zach for his ongoing passion and ambition.
In some ways, this VBA member update can be summarize quite simply.
The 2021 AGM was not only a success, but gave me and this year’s board a
shot of much-needed optimism that things will return to normal this year.
We are preparing for the best-case scenario, and only events out of our control
will prevent us from resuming marquee in-person events. We are grateful
to all the people who work with us for the benefit of our members. We
are equally grateful for the continued support of our nearly 1,200 members,
and we look forward to seeing you throughout the year.