Announcement of Executive Director Transition

Dear community members,

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Victoria Sexual Assault Centre (VSAC), we are writing to advise you that Elijah Zimmerman has resigned from the position of Executive Director of VSAC. We share this news with both heavy hearts and joy for Elijah as he moves on to new and exciting endeavours. After a productive month of transitions, handovers, and wrap ups, Elijah’s last day was January 31st, 2023.

Elijah held the position of Executive Director of VSAC for three years. During his tenure, he led the Centre through a global pandemic, changes and updates to the delivery of services, and the collaborative development and operationalization of a three-year strategic plan – all the while ensuring that VSAC’s work was responsive to, and in solidarity with, the needs and priorities of people and communities most impacted by sexualized violence. Elijah’s leadership also oversaw the alignment of VSAC’s organizational system with its purpose and values. This included efforts to continue to understand VSAC’s role in Truth and Reconciliation, and creating policies and procedures for equity, diversity, and inclusion with a focus on anti-racism. It is difficult to put into words our gratitude to Elijah for his guidance, insight, and presence while in the role of Executive Director. 

As of February 1st, we welcomed Samantha Loppie as the Interim Executive Director of VSAC.  Coming from the Manager of Direct Client Services position, Samantha has worked closely with Elijah to prepare for her transition into the Interim ED role. We are looking forward to working with Samantha and have all the confidence in her leadership and connection to a strong management team at VSAC. 

The Board of Directors has begun the search and hiring process for a new ED. We are hopeful that this process will conclude by April, 2023 at the earliest. We will be sure to introduce the new ED when this process is complete.

Thank you for your continued support. As always, it means so very much to us. 

Warmly,

Anna Bruce & Ram Aheer, VSAC Board Co-Chairs

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