Long-term contributor to Alberta’s ICT sector takes on key role
Calgary – In order to meet the needs of the continued growth in Alberta’s digital and interactive media industry, Digital Alberta’s board of directors is pleased to announce the appointment of René Smid to the position of Executive Director.
René Smid
“We are grateful that René has accepted this position”, says Digital Alberta President Ron Thiele. “As a true professional, she has developed a key understanding of our industry and the challenges faced by our member companies.”
Smid is no newcomer to the industry. She brings a plethora of skills to the table – having been Digital Alberta’s program manager since the organization’s inception in 2001. She’s also had eight years Executive Director experience with the Calgary Council for Advanced Technology.
“Rene has been the cornerstone of Digital Alberta’s ability to deliver solid programs to our members,” says Thiele. “She is a valuable asset, for Digital Alberta as well as for Alberta’s Digital Media Industry.
Backed by a strong board of directors, a solid mandate and proven programs, Thiele is confident Smid’s role will be a significant contribution to the digital media industry.
Got a killer videogame idea? Skills strong enough for a spot on a game development team? Then get paid to build your game this summer in the 2009 GameGarage on beautiful PEI.
Charlettetown PEI – Canadian gamers who are graduating from or are recent graduates of interactive media programs are invited to compete for five spots on the 2009 GameGame Videogame Incubator Team where they will work with mentors from PEI’s gaming industry to build a functioning game prototype. And they get paid.
Created by Kids’ Health Links Foundation (KHLF) and powered by TELUS, Upopolis.com provides the best features of social networking for young patients who often feel disconnected when they’re in the hospital. Upopolis provides a personal profile, personal blogs, instant chat and child-friendly games. The site also provides unique features to kids in hospital like a homework site to stay up-to-date with their schoolwork, links to kid-friendly health and wellness information, and connections to other children with the same condition.
“Our hospital offers very specialized pediatric care that is unique in the province, so we take in some seriously ill and injured kids who will really benefit from Upopolis to help them stay connected to their loved ones,” said Larry Gold, president, BC Children’s Hospital and Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, agencies of the Provincial Health Services Authority. “We are committed to bringing the best possible care for our young patients and Upopolis will help to enhance their hospital experience.”