Companion Forum 2020
There was an extraordinary turnout of Companions at the event to welcome the three new Companions, Dr. Sir Tīmoti Kāretu, Mr Rauru Kirikiri, and Professor Christine Jasoni.
The business meeting that followed their induction was attended online by a further 8 Companions, including long-time Royal Society Te Apārangi supporters, Dame Elizabeth Hanan, George Jones, and Dr Steve Thompson.
The freedom to have such a large physical meeting represented a triumph of science in government. It was generally acknowledged that while the science has always been there to inform policy, the government is now respecting and acting on it as never before. The important role of science is very visible to the public also.
Companions at the meeting brought some 1000 years of experience at the highest levels of government, education, business, research, community and cultural institutions. The main question under consideration was, “how can the Royal Society draw on this knowledge and experience?” Already, Companions are called on to help judge awards, medals, scholarships, and provide specific expert advice on its many panels, including the new one on NZ history teaching.
Companions may also have a valuable role as mentors to younger New Zealanders across a wide spectrum of endeavour. Dr Helen Anderson, formerly CEO of the Ministry of Research, Science & Technology, recalled the benefits of the Oxygen group of young scientists she convened. It was recognised that in this fast-changing world, with its plethora of new technologies and modes of communication, the mentoring goes both ways.
The criteria for election to the role of Companion has broadened to include “knowledge holding”. CEO Dr Andrew Cleland encouraged Companions to nominate people from diverse backgrounds, not just close contacts in science or academia.
Professor Wendy Larner reported on progress with the priorities she set for her term as President. The Society has acted dynamically on her equity and diversity remit, and is focussed on the revitalisation of te reo. President-elect Dr Brent Clothier attended the meeting also.
The annual gathering ended with a warm acknowledgement of the work by CEO Dr Andrew Cleland, who leaves the role in February 2021.
Glenda Lewis CRSNZ, Convenor