As the newly selected Managing Director, I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the stakeholders of the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network (NBSPRN). It is an honour to have this opportunity to work with the amazing talent and leadership that make up the membership and staff of the NBSPRN. I first met Hon. Andy Scott at a workshop on citizen engagement he was facilitating at the 2010 Fredericton Social Innovation open space forum. His ideas around citizen engagement were captivating, and I knew if he wanted to initiate a citizen engagement project, I would want to be part of it.

I believe strongly in the work of the NBSPRN. The membership is positioned to be at the forefront of change. The staff are bringing together academia, community, and government in an unprecedented way. Together we are forging a new process in the development of informed social policy that will shape the future of NB for generations. The work of NBSPRN is contributing to this province becoming a leader among provinces.

I come to the Network with a passion for the work and for our province. While at the network I will build on its established foundation and work to develop mechanisms to enhance the impact of its work, while measuring the results and demonstrating progress. NBSPRN will become increasingly accountable to its members and stakeholders.

We will strive to use every hour and every dollar to its full potential. Our members and stakeholders will see a return on their investment. And most of all, New Brunswick citizens will experience the impact of that return, through informed decision-making, and enhanced engagement in the shaping of our future and quality of life.

My aim is to have mechanisms in place early in the New Year that will allow the network to effectively report progress and demonstrate results to its members. In the coming weeks I will be working to develop a greater understanding of the challenges that the NBSPRN has faced, and set out a plan to address them. The needed changes will not happen overnight, but I assure you they will be noticeable in due time.

Finally, NBSPRN cannot become the vehicle for collaboration and informed decision making it needs to be without the cooperation and input of the stakeholders. I appreciate the anticipated support and patience of the members through this transition. Furthermore, I want to hear from you. I welcome and encourage your input as we take the network into its next phase. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 453-6507 or by e-mail at nick.scott@rrps-nb-sprn.ca.

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to working with you on this exciting and important project.

Sincerely,

Nick Scott
Managing Director
NB Social Policy Research Network