News & Statements

PEN Canada’s Nominating Committee invites self-nominations for its Board of Directors. We particularly welcome those with a background or interest in fundraising and / or events.

Board members are expected to contribute to PEN’s activities, attend and participate in quarterly board meetings, and take part in committee work as needed.

What we are looking for: 

• Fundraising Chair: PEN Canada seeks a Fundraising Chair to represent the organization within the private and corporate sectors. The Chair will work in consultation with the Executive Director and with Board approval to design an effective fundraising program, concentrating on private and corporate donors and private foundations.
• Events Chair: PEN Canada seeks an Events Chair to organize outreach events pertinent to PEN’s program work. The Events Chair will help plan, budget, and promote events for the purposes of fundraising or building the public profile of the organization. 
• Candidates should be interested in literature and freedom of expression and a commitment to the principles and values of PEN Canada.
• The Nominating Committee will take into account identified needs for expertise and regional representation. This year these include an ability to fundraise, and skills and interest in assisting international writers in peril.
• The Nominating Committee believes that a diverse board is a stronger board, and so seeks candidates from a variety of backgrounds. 
• PEN Canada is a national organization committed to strong representation from across the country. At this time, we especially welcome applications from potential board members in Atlantic Canada 

Timeline and Eligibility 

After reviewing applications, the Nominating Committee will recommend candidates to the board of directors, in accordance with PEN’s General By-laws. 

Nominees recommended by the Nominating Committee will participate in an election at PEN’s Annual General Meeting, taking place online on Thursday June 11, 2026. If elected, they will serve a 3-year term for a maximum of two terms.

To qualify for nomination, candidates must be:

1. A member of PEN Canada or shall become one within 10 days after election as a director. Preference may be given to writers, including journalists, playwrights, editors, translators, screenwriters, radio and television dramatists, documentary makers, and song-writers, as well as other individuals in the field of writing qualify for admission as members. The Board may also accept exceptional individuals who do not satisfy these criteria.
2. 18 years of age or older

How to Apply 

Please submit a brief (250-500 word) letter outlining your interest in PEN Canada and relevant experience and / or skills to the Chair of the 2026 Nominating Committee, PEN Canada President Ira Wells at iwells@pencanada.ca. 

PEN welcomes nominations before Monday April 13, 2026 at 4:00 pm (EST).  Early applications are encouraged as PEN will review candidates on a rolling basis, or until the roles are filled.