The program this evening focuses on the value of public service and the importance of economic and financial literacy for the well-being of Canadians. These two themes have special significance for me, as my career has involved time spent in the public service as well as teaching.
My long-standing interest in public service and economic education (indeed, education more generally) was sparked and nourished through my formative years at Ridley College and Queen’s University. Ridley’s motto is Terar Dum Prosim (which roughly translates into May I Be Consumed in Service). And Queen’s is Sapientia et Doctrina Stabilitas (that is, Wisdom and Knowledge Shall Be the Strength of Thy Times).