Good morning all,

Keeping you in the loop,

Holly

Hello everyone,

During the last couple of weeks we have seen the spread of the COVID-19 virus globally at an extraordinary speed. I think few of us predicted the impact this would have on our families, our community and the AGO. 

I have to say the degree at which everyone is adapting is impressive. I want to thank you for being so flexible. We need to remind ourselves that we are doing all of this in an attempt to save lives and support public health. It really is a collective effort. 

Last week – while in Sydney – it became clear that things were changing fast. All of LT was in constant communication and attempting to make the best decisions possible. I returned on the first available flight – which landed at Pearson on Saturday – which meant that 14 days of self-quarantine was suddenly a requirement. I am feeling fine – but as an extrovert I would rather be socializing – guess that is not going to happen for a while!

So what am I doing? The last couple of days I have been on dozens of calls. In addition to communicating with board leadership, I have been in regular contact with the Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Cultural Industries and museum directors globally. LT has been meeting first thing every morning and last thing in the afternoon to help define what questions need to be addressed that day and what actions have to be taken. I have also had phone meetings with each LT member individually and have to say the thoughtfulness of each person is striking. If you have any questions, you should know that all LT members are available as am I. 

Again, we are attempting to make the best possible decisions with the information we have in a dynamic situation. We will not always make the right decision but we are honestly attempting to do the right thing.

I will be starting to send out three personal updates each week. You will also be receiving logistical updates from Mike. 

I want to thank each and every employee and volunteer of the AGO. Please take all the steps suggested by public health authorities.

Stephan