Hello Everyone,

• At the mid-winter meeting for museum directors this week, I spent a lot of time listening and observing. With the political situation in the US, there was a lot of anxiety. I think that leadership demands that we listen to one another and look carefully, then act. I believe great art can frame cultural issues to help create a world we actually want to live in. Clarity of mission – great art, creating access, facilitating learning – helps us be a better AGO.

• Earlier today an announcement went out about a tentative contract with OPSEU (AGO workers bargaining unit).  I want to thank each member of our staff who participated in the negotiations: the OPSEU bargaining team led by Aaron Knight, with Gina Badger, Pat Colosimo, Dimitra Psomopoulos, Brent Roe and Asa Sexton-Greenberg; and the Management Bargaining Team led by Deb O’Leary and Lauri Green, with Renee Bellefeuille, Iain Hoadley, Herman Lo and Deborah Nolan. I am proud that they were able to communicate, listen, and find a possible way forward. Thank you.

• Tonight, I am attending a dinner to celebrate the beginning of Chinese New Year tomorrow. This is the year of the Fire Rooster. Best wishes to everyone who will be celebrating over the next few days!

Stephan