Jodie Robson was appointed as Administrative Secretary of the British Association for Canadian Studies (BACS) in October 1993 and since that time has managed the National Office from Edinburgh with great dedication, ability and enthusiasm. As Administrative Secretary Jodie co-ordinates the activities of BACS and its sub-groups; ensures people are kept abreast of news and developments; updates the membership records of BACS and its sub-groups; and assists with financial matters and publicity.

Jodie plays a central role in the production of the British Journal of Canadian Studies, sub-editing the journal, seeing it through printing and distribution. She also assists with the production of the BACS Newsletter and is responsible for its distribution. More recently she has been involved in developing a BACS Web site.

Jodie is also centrally involved in the organization of the annual conferences. Those who have worked with her in this activity testify not only to her invaluable contact with attendees and conference centres, but to her support and wise advice in smoothing over the inevitable difficulties and snags that arise.

Other work includes handling the awards and competitions, including the Molson scholarships and the Prix du Québec. But the bare listing of her duties fails to give the full flavour and importance of Jodie’s contribution. She is an enthusiast for things Canadian (ideally at conferences she would like to spend much more time in the sessions), and a good-humoured, sensible and totally reliable presence within BACS. Presidents come and go, but Jodie, at the centre, provides vital continuity in our organisation. She is a most deserving recipient of the ICCS Certificate of Merit.