The Rennie Charles Award

This award was created in 1986 to commemorate Rennie Charles and to recognize members who embody his spirit and dedication.

The Rennie Charles Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Toronto Chapter is the chapter's most prestigious award. It is named in memory of a former director-sponsor much cherished for the “ideas, support, patience, advice, and mirth” he shared with the Toronto technical writing community.

The winner gets a small plaque to keep and retains the large plaque with all the winners' names on it until it is awarded again.

Winners of the Rennie Charles Award

About Rennie Charles
--by Kim Van Rooy
.

In 1953, Rennie Charles joined the Society of Technical Writers and Editors, which later became the STC. He was a member of the faculty at Ryerson Polytechnic Institute from 1945 to 1980. In 1970 he founded the Department of Business and Technical Communication at Ryerson to fill a need for training in clear communication.

He served as the chapter president twice, and in 1982 he was named an associate fellow. At the time of his passing, Rennie was serving at the international level as director-sponsor for our region.

The Toronto chapter went through a period of dormancy during the late 70's and early 80's and Rennie Charles played a key role in preserving the chapter and helping it get back on its feet. He coached Ann Rockley in being chapter president. He was always there to help, guide, and encourage the fledgling Administrative Council.

Rennie Charles was a highly regarded colleague and a much loved friend to many. And that is what this award is all about - honouring and recognizing those Toronto chapter members whose leadership and support follow in the tradition of Rennie Charles.

What's it all about? How to nominate someone

- an article from Communication Times, February 1998
by Sara Durning, Carla Salvador, and Kim Van Rooy, Recognition Committee

Awards page Society-level awards

Home | Awards | Books | Competition | Education | Events | Exec | FAQ | Jobs | Links | Meetings | Membership | Newsletters | SIGs | Volunteers