Message from RSA Chair, Vikki Heywood

RSA Chair Vikki Heywood's message to trustees.

"Can I begin by saying a very big thank you to the Fellowship for appointing me to the role of Chairman.  I was delighted to accept the position and have spent a busy and stimulating couple of months learning all about this fascinating –  and complex – organisation.  I am enjoying getting to know Trustees, Fellowship Councillors and the wider Fellowship, as well as taking part in the annual awards ceremony for the Royal Designers for Industry and welcoming The Duke of Edinburgh for a return visit to the House, when a room was named in his honour. 

I have also had a very inspiring visit to one of our Academies, Arrow Vale, in Worcestershire.  The Family of RSA Academies is a major commitment and an important legacy of my predecessor, Luke Johnson.  I am keen to ensure we take this opportunity to have a real impact on the lives of the children, parents and teachers at our schools.

I have also been working closely with Matthew and the Executive Team as we prepare for the Trustee Board ‘Awayday’ in January.  This important meeting in our Trustee calendar devotes time to consider the future plans for the RSA and review progress on activities to date.

The breadth and reach of the RSA's work would not be possible without the dedication of our staff and the support of our Fellows.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Fellowship, not only for your financial contribution to our charitable mission but also for the wider engagement that so many of you have to the RSA.  I hope to visit every Region and Nation during my chairmanship and will look forward to meeting as many of you as possible.  In the meantime, I wish you and your families a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2013."

Vikki Heywood, RSA Chair.