SOCAN Foundation Paves Way for Bright Future

Ouellette new President; Andrews joins as Manager

TORONTO, Aug. 25, 2015 /CNW/ - SOCAN Foundation today announced the election by its board of directors of renowned composer Marc Ouellette as President, and that experienced Canadian music industry and non-profit professional Charlie Andrews is the organization's new Manager, Outreach & Development.

SOCAN Foundation also announced that Rick MacMillan will retire after 16 years of service with the organization, plus 24 years of prior service with its parent company SOCAN.

As President of the board of directors, Marc Ouellette will play a key role in fostering and sustaining an environment that creates and expands opportunities for songwriters, composers, and music publishers by way of grants and awards programs. He takes over from Jean-François Denis, who has served as president since 2012.

"Marc Ouellette is one of the music industry's most renowned composers and music producers, and is an excellent choice as President of SOCAN Foundation," said SOCAN CEO Eric Baptiste. "Marc's experience on the Foundation's board and his deep understanding of the music business and non-profit organizations are vital to the future success of the SOCAN Foundation."

Charlie Andrews brings with her considerable experience in arts and music philanthropy. As Manager, Outreach & Development, she will work directly with the organization's board of directors to build an even more meaningful presence for SOCAN Foundation. Through involvement with various programs and initiatives, Andrews will oversee the grants and awards programs, which in 2014 benefitted more than 600 organizations and individuals.

"Charlie is a leader in the arts and music community, and we are excited to have her join our organization," Ouellette commented. "Rick MacMillan's influence and immense contributions have paved the way for Charlie and her new team, who will continue to build on the success of the past. Charlie's passion and experience will prove valuable as the Foundation continues to evolve. On behalf of the SOCAN Foundation's board of directors, I would like to thank Rick MacMillan for his excellent work and commitment over the years, and wish him every success for the future."

As the music industry changes and becomes more competitive, SOCAN Foundation will continue to consider new strategies to foster Canadian music creation and promote a better understanding of the role of today's music creators.

Ouellette will continue to serve as a member of the SOCAN board of directors.

SOCAN Foundation also plans to announce its first Program Administrator, a position created this year.

About SOCAN Foundation

Founded in 1992, SOCAN Foundation is dedicated to fostering musical creativity and promoting a better understanding of the role of music creators in today's society. SOCAN Foundation is an independent organization guided by its own board of directors. The board, which consists of composers, songwriters and music publishers, reflects concert music and popular music genres as well as the geographic and linguistic regions of Canada. SOCAN Foundation is closely aligned to the interests of the members of SOCAN: composers, lyricists, songwriters and publishers of musical works.

SOURCE SOCAN Foundation

Media Contact: Charlie Andrews, 416.442.3838 ext. 3855, [email protected]