Last week, the Bowen Island Community Foundation held its annual general meeting. The longtime chair, Soren Hammerberg, stepped down and retired real estate executive and Order of British Columbia recipient David Podmore took the organization’s reigns for a two-year term. Below is Podmore’s tribute to his predecessor.
On May 4 at the annual general meeting of the Bowen Island Community Foundation, it was my great privilege to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of Soren Hammerberg to the Foundation and, in turn, to our wonderful community.
Through Soren’s leadership by example, his tireless energy and dedication to grow the foundation’s capacity to serve and support our Bowen community, and his full commitment of time and personal resources, the Foundation has flourished beyond any reasonable expectations the community may have held.
While Soren is stepping back, I am confident he will continue to support the foundation and inspire us to build on his amazing accomplishments – he is leaving an outstanding legacy and base for us to grow upon.
It is clear to me, having worked alongside Soren for two years, that he has dedicated at least five years of his life as foundation chair, building the capacity of the foundation to serve our community.
At the same time, we must recognize that he has also been especially generous through his personal philanthropic contributions to the foundation. Most importantly, Soren has led by example and with the greatest integrity – in the process setting a very high standard to be expected of those that follow him.
Albert Schweitzer once said, “Example is not the main thing influencing others. It is the ONLY thing.” Consequently, it is no surprise to me that Soren’s example has attracted individuals of high integrity to enthusiastically follow and support his inspiring leadership – wow! You have left some very big shoes to fill!
I also want to thank Liz and the Hammerberg family for sharing your time with our community – Liz, you have been so supportive of the foundation, opening your home on many occasions, generously giving of your time, energy and counsel. We are most grateful for all you have done.
As I conclude, I want to circle back to what I believe is Soren’s most distinguishing quality – his integrity. I am reminded of a quote from a very famous leader who said, “The supreme quality of leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, in an office.”
I am sure if he had known Soren he would have added, “...or in service of one’s community.” That quote’s from Dwight D. Eisenhower.
All the very best wishes to you my friend – thank you for all you have done and the path you have set for us.
David Podmore, O.B.C.
Chair
Bowen Island Community Foundation
