Richard Boudreault

Chapter Affiliation

Background Information

Statement

The mission of Sigma Xi is globally critical to the defense of the research enterprise, and my set of values correspond to those of the Society with involvement with the Society for more than two decades.  My most recent roles including two terms as a board member representing the Canadian/International Constituency Group and Chairman of the Committee on Global Outreach.  

I was nominated by the Committee on Nominations twice to run as president.  I have thus reflected on what is required to be a great Sigma Xi president.  To be effective, a candidate must have a brand and be able to devolve time to the organization.  Presidency is a three-year commitment, so it is necessary that candidates for the position have a clear view of the goals they want to accomplish. Furthermore, they need to be compatible with the executives, the organization, and be familiar with the Society’s strategic plan.  

Therefore, the committee must ponder many questions about the candidates: Are they change agents or not? What is the balance of tangibility versus brand do they propose?  Do they have leadership skills and what type are they?  What is their national and international contact network? What is their commitment towards philanthropy, will they be active participants? Innovative or conservative? Foster and value gender and cultural diversity? 

Different times require different skills from the leaders and the Committee on Nominations must weigh the needs of the organization. The work of the committee is thus mission critical and I can contribute valuable experience and discernment to its work.