The Board of the Ontario Chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers (CAPS) is pleased to announce portfolio changes and new appointments to the board. The succession plans and new appointments take effect today, November 6, 2015. New appointments are to be ratified by the membership at the 2016 spring AGM.

We would like to thank our outgoing president, Elsa Macdonald, for her many years of dedication and tireless efforts as an executive of the association. We have hosted two provincial and one national competition during her tenure as well as increased membership levels. Elsa will remain involved as Professional Development Director.

Under the direction of Elsa Macdonald and in association with CAPS National President, Michelle McCarthy, sponsorship has seen a tremendous uptake. Many significant new corporate sponsorship partnerships have been established which will be instrumental in funding future provincial and national competitions essential to promoting Canada’s wealth of talent.

We would also like to thank Jean-Pierre Challet (Hospitality Liaison) and Pat Orgera (Stage Director) for their extended service. JP has been a vital part of fund raising events with his unique perspective as both chef and sommelier. Pat has been a lifeline for many students as a coach and has graciously hosted multiple exams at Barberian’s Steakhouse. Both will continue to work with CAPS in committee roles.

We also wish to welcome our new board members who will work on your behalf to advocate for the profession of Sommellerie, continue to develop new and progressive curriculums and work together with a national board to strengthen our professional association.

Bringing into effect the succession plans of the board, the new positions are listed here.

Executive board:

President – Sara d’Amato
Vice President– Michelle Paris
Treasurer – John Nadeau
Secretary – Melissa Stunden

New board member appointments:

Membership Director – Carol Ann Jessiman
Sponsorship Director – Lisa Fenn
Regional Liaison Director – Chris Wilton
Hospitality Liaison Director – Adam Hijazi
PR/Social Media Director – Jamie Drummond

New and renewed portfolio appointments:

Co-Directors Education – James Pollock and Michelle McCarthy
Director, Website & Competition/Technical Director – Lesley Provost
Professional Development – Elsa Macdonald

Portfolio Directors are currently looking for committee members to assist with creative new projects. Please contact us should you be interested in being involved with any of the divisions listed above. Not only is this a great networking opportunity but it is a chance make your mark in our dynamic industry.

Should you have any further questions regarding these new appointments, membership or would like to submit candidacy in an upcoming election, please address your questions to either Sara d’Amato (sara@saradamato.com) or Michelle Paris (michelle@adventureinwine.com)

Sincerely,

Sara d’Amato
President, CAPS Ontario

Elsa Macdonald
Past-President, Professional Development Director

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