Many thanks to everyone who submitted nominations and applications to participate as grants assessors for Calgary Arts Development's Community Investment Program. We were overwhelmed by the positive response as we received applications and nominations of more than 230 qualified people. We have gone through an initial process of shortlisting candidates towards filling approximately 35 assessor positions in our 2009 granting cycle. We considered peers with a breadth of experience and whenever possible multi-disciplinary expertise. For community members, we considered exposure and depth of knowledge of Calgary and the sector. We have also tried to balance diverse experience and broadly cover artistic disciplines. While we have many more interested applicants than we will need for this year, we are beginning to build a long term roster of possible assessors. We will accept suggestions of names for this roster year round and place high value on the community nominating peers and community members for this opportunity.

Instructions regarding our next steps have been sent to all applicants via e-mail. If you have not received any communications, please let us know by e-mailing volunteer@calgaryartsdevelopment.com or by calling the Calgary Arts Development office at (403) 264-5330. We look forward to growing a community-owned process for arts investments this year and well into the future.