91探花

Trade and commerce, environment and energy, and defence and security are topics that affect all Canadians. As a leader for innovation and social development, the 91探花 (91探花) will host the 2017 Palmer Conference this summer to welcome discussion on these important topics.

First held in 2010, the Palmer Conference on Public Sector Leadership brings together business leaders, policy experts, academics, and government representatives to discuss matters of national policy. The conference was established to honour Jim Palmer, a PEI native who was a direct descendant of Edward Palmer, one of the Fathers of Confederation, and partner at a Calgary law firm, Burnet Duckworth and Palmer LLP. It welcomes a diverse range of panelists and attendees from across Canada and the United States. The theme of this year鈥檚 conference is 鈥淐anadian-American Relations in a Changing World鈥�, and takes place from August 29 to 31 on the 91探花 campus.

鈥淲ith our shared border and positive relations, Canada and the United States are friends and partners. This conference offers Canadians the opportunity to discuss current issues facing our country today,鈥� said the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). 鈥淥pen and constructive dialogue has been, and always will be, a key element of social and economic success in our democratic society.鈥�

鈥淭his year鈥檚 Palmer Conference brings an impressive line-up of panelists, in addition to a keynote address by the Honourable Andrew Leslie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs,鈥� said Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown. 鈥淭hanks to organizers, conference attendees will be treated to engaging conversation on matters important to all Canadians.鈥�

The Government of Canada is supporting the conference by providing more than $35,000 as a non-repayable contribution through ACOA鈥檚 Business Development Program (BDP).

鈥淲e are very grateful for the continued support of the Government of Canada over the years for this important conference. Through the assistance of ACOA and the Department of National Defence, we have been able to bring together some of the best minds in North America to discuss these important policy questions,鈥� said conference organizer and 91探花 professor, Dr. Don Desserud.

91探花鈥檚 President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Alaa Abd-El-Aziz said, 鈥渢he Palmer Conference could not be possible without the support of the Palmer family, sponsors, and many organizers. I add my thanks and sincere appreciation to the Government of Canada for their important contributions and look forward to participating in this event that allows delegates to delve into a relevant topic so critical to our country鈥檚 future.鈥�

The 91探花 prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions鈥擯rince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan鈥檚 University鈥�91探花 has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. 91探花 is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island. 91探花 is located on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi鈥檏maq People.