Concordia Journal Home > Archives > October 23, 2008 issue >

Provincial representative leaves National Assembly for Concordia 

Russell Copeman has stepped down as a Liberal MNA to assume duties as associate Vice-President, Government Relations here effective Oct. 27. He will be joining the team under the direction of Vice-President, External Relations and Secretary-General, Bram Freedman.

In a speech to the National Assembly on Oct. 22, Copeman announced he would be leaving his seat representing the riding of NDG after holding it for 14 years. He thanked his colleagues in political life, his constituency and his family for their support over the years.

In his resignation speech, he remarked on the support he was able to provide through guaranteed medical services, income assistance and resources for the homeless as important contributions of his political life. Most recently he served the Minister of Health and Social Services as parliamentary assistant since 2007. Prior to that, from 2003 to 2007, he was the Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Social Affairs.

“I am extremely pleased to have Russell Copeman joining our team,” said Vice-President Freedman. “His experience as an MNA, knowledge and involvement in the community and his commitment to progressive social policy will be of great value to Concordia. I know that he will be extremely effective as our liaison to the various levels of government and policy-makers.”

Copeman is aware of many of the current opportunities and challenges facing Concordia, especially since the Loyola campus is within his former riding. He will act as a liaison between officials at all levels of government and the university, ensuring that the institutional priorities are implemented.