What a year it's been! Despite the many hardships associated with 2020, I'm delighted with the progress RCIScience has made in connecting Canadians with science this year.

By embracing change, we quickly pivoted our efforts to provide you with more novel ways to engage with science, and each other, even when we're forced to stay apart.

Our digital STEM collection received thousands of views on our website early in the pandemic, and our book club provided a fantastic opportunity to discuss current events and explore multiple areas of science.

Sidewalk Science in action

Astronomer Parshati Patel with her Sidewalk Science

Chemist Leanne Racicot engages customers of a local bakery with the Maillard Reaction!

Dr. Rebecca Yardley opens the floor for questions about her biodegradable polymers!

Charys Martin solicits questions from her neighbourhood about the human body

Our social media platforms evolved, with Instagram takeovers proving a fun and engaging way to connect you with scientists working across Canada. Don't forget, you can view past takeovers in the Highlights section. Our #SidewalkScience campaign was a roaring success, and we loved seeing Canadian scientists engage their local neighbourhoods with their research. We even made it to CBC News!

Prior to lockdowns, we were fortunate enough to deliver the SciCommTO Conference in partnership with Ryerson University's SciXchange. One of the first of its kind in Canada, this 2-day conference connected professional and aspiring science communicators to tackle some of the biggest issues in science communication.

And we hosted the second ever Science is a Drag show - a sellout in under 30 minutes! - creating a safe space for anyone to engage with science.

While our platforms and programming have grown this year, lockdowns have prevented us from holding fundraising events. In recognition of widespread economic hardship, we waived membership renewal fees for 2020-21. Now, we need your help to make up the shortfall. If you can, please consider making a tax-deductible donation by December 31 and help us continue a mission that first began in 1849.

We're excited to build on the successes of 2020 in the new year, when we'll be hosting more events to connect you with topical science and trusted researchers. We look forward to continuing the fight against misinformation, celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the discovery of insulin, and working with our partners and volunteers to bring you even more great science content in 2021!

In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the latest issue of RCIScience Magazine.

Warmest wishes,

Carrie Boyce
Interim Executive Director