Chasing Ice Documentary Screening & Discussion
On April 23, 2015, CG Platt and PA hosted a film screening of “Chasing Ice” in celebration of Earth Day. 57 individuals were in attendance, and included academia, environmental experts, and students. The screening was followed by a panel discussion and a networking reception. The screening and discussion was able to highlight U.S.-Canada shared values regarding environment, and the urgency of climate change in both nations. It worked to promote discussion on how we should bilaterally work to combat climate change and its effects.
EducationUSA
From April 16-18 2015 EducationUSA advisor Jenika Heim visited several schools around Metro Vancouver to present on EducationUSA. Secondary schools included Kitsilano, Killarney, Pacific Academy, Fraser Heights, and Dr. Charles Best. Jenika also attended the U.S. College Expo in Vancouver. This visit helped to promote State Department’s EducationUSA and President Obama’s 100,000 Strong initiative. It also promoted cultural exchange by encouraging Canadian students to look into studying abroad in the U.S. Consulate staff also presentation on EducationUSA at Princess Margaret Secondary. The audience included faculty, parents, and students from the Surrey school district. This activity was also chosen in support of President Obama’s 100,000 Strong initiative and promoted cultural exchange by encouraging students to study in the USA.
Women’s History Month
On March 31, 2015 CG Lynne Platt hosted a Women’s History Month film screening and discussion at the Consul General’s Residence. “Makers: Women in Business” was filmed to spur discussion with an audience of young women studying business from local universities. The film was followed by a speaker panel of local women business leaders and a wine and cheese networking reception. “Makers: Women in Business” provided a unique American cultural standpoint from which to start discussion. This event worked to promote cultural exchange and understanding of shared values, particularly amongst youth.
West Coast Women in Innovation
On March 17, 2015 CG Platt and PA hosted West Coast Women in Innovation in conjunction with Michelle Osry of Deloitte and the Canadian Consul General of San Francisco, Cassie Doyle. The event featured a panel of speakers, including Vicki Heyman, followed by a networking reception. The goal of the event was to create dialogue on women and how to support women in innovation and entrepreneurship. The event worked towards promoting cultural exchange and enhanced understanding of shared values.
Dr. Ritchie
On March 26th 2015 Dr. Elspeth Ritchie visited Victoria and Vancouver to speak about issues relating to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in her experience in the Armed Forces. In Victoria, she presented to military and clinicians at CFB Esquimalt and stopped at CFAX Radio to speak with Terry Moore. In Vancouver, PA hosted a DVC across all Posts, and also accompanied Dr. Ritchie to the Justice Institute of British Columbia and to an interview with Stu McNish. Dr. Ritchie’s visit helped to promote cultural exchange of information, and it worked to inform the Canadian public of U.S. policies regarding PTSD and of progress in initiatives to combat it.
