Winter 2015 (Volume 25, Number 4)

Who Is Behind That Email Address?

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Name:Sharon Brinkos

Role at the CRA:Executive Assistant

How long have you been kicking around?Almost two-and-a-half years!

What has been your funniest moment working at the CRA?There is not any one particular moment but when Christine, Virginia, Claire, and I get together, there is usually something that we all have a good laugh over.

Have you experienced a real eye-opener while in your position? Working with doctors gives a real appreciation for what they do and how they are trying to make things better for the future.

How many ASMs have you attended?Two: Whistler (2014) and Quebec City (2015).

At 5 pm on a Friday I can be foundeither packing up to head to the cottage or cooking dinner.

Personal interests?Cooking, spending time at the cottage, crafts, and my volunteer jobs.

Why do you love working for the CRA?Meeting everyone that I deal with on a daily basis at the ASM and working from home allows for flexibility with my kids’ schedules.

Do you have any pets/personal mascots?Yes, his name is Oskar.

Name:Claire McGowan

Role at the CRA:Project Coordinator

How long have you been kicking around?I have been kicking around for quite some time, specifically a year at the CRA.

What has been your funniest moment working at the CRA?We have had some funny times on flights…although perhaps my colleagues spend more time laughing at me.

How many ASMs have you attended?One so far…Quebec City (2015).

At 5 pm on a Friday I can be foundkicking off the weekend with the ones nearest and dearest to me.

Personal interests?Photography, travelling, kayaking, and hiking.

Why do you love working for the CRA?I work with good and wonderfully dedicated individuals who all channel their energies towards a common goal.

Do you have any pets/personal mascots?No pets, no plants. I am only good at keeping people alive and well!

Name:Virginia Hopkins

Role at the CRA:Research & Technology Coordinator

How long have you been kicking around?Four years.

Have you experienced a real eye-opener while in your position?The amount of knowledge that is required to do this job and understand rheumatology is endless!

How many ASMs have you attended?Four: Victoria (2012),
Ottawa (2013), Whistler (2014) and Quebec City (2015).

At 5 pm on a Friday I can be founddriving my kids somewhere…

Personal interests?Reading, volleyball, and ball hockey.

Why do you love working for the CRA?I love working from home and the range of responsibilities.

Do you have any pets/personal mascots?We have a Netherland Dwarf rabbit named Coco.