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The OHS is seeking expressions of interest to serve on the board of directors.
The OHS is looking for people with the following general experience and qualifications, to serve on the board of directors.
- Commitment to enhancing knowledge and skills related to preserving Okanagan history
- Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships. Collaborative, collegial, and consultative communication style
- Knowledge of policies and processes related to not-for-profit boards
- Technology proficient. Experience with and skilled in digital communications. Ability to effectively use common software systems (i.e. email, word processing, video conference)
- Excellent leadership, conflict resolution, problem solving, and organization skills
- Ability to think strategically and analytically
Seeking subject matter experts in the following areas:
- administration and records management, relationship management (ie members, volunteers), donor relations (build/maintain partnerships with supporters/donors), editing and publishing (electronic newsletter, report editor support), marketing, online sales, technology and systems (ie website management), strategic planning, non-profit governance, finance, legal
Mentorship opportunities are available.
Positions are one and two years, starting September 2026.
Time Commitment: 1 hour monthly board meeting, via Zoom. 1 half day in-person general meeting per year. Plus committee work associated with area of expertise (time dependent on committee. Est. 1-2 hours per month).
Please submit a personal introduction in the form of a one page expression of interest to Karen Collins, Secretary (karen_collins@shaw.ca) by September 13, 2026 outing your suitability for a board position.
Okanagan History, the 89th report, is now available. It is our Centennial Edition with additional colour photos and stories. Click here for more info and how to purchase.
Celebrating 100 Years of the Okanagan Historical Society
On September 4, 1925, a meeting was held in the Vernon City Hall to form the Okanagan Historical and Natural History Society. The organizer and visionary behind the meeting was Leonard Norris, who persuaded twenty-two interested people to attend. There were two women present, Maria Brent, whose Indigenous ancestry was acknowledged, and Almira Furniss, who was the one who suggested that a society be formed called the Okanagan Historical Society.
Leonard Norris suggested the addition of “and Natural History” to follow the first part. So it was that a motion was made by Arthur Cochrane and seconded by Almira Furniss, “That a society be formed under the Style and Title of The Okanagan Historical and Natural History Society.” The motion was carried.
Leonard Norris was elected as president and took the chair. He said that he understood that the society was formed for the purpose of historical research and investigating the natural history of the province, and for prehistoric research. From the outset, it was understood that the executive should consist, “of a committee, including representatives from Kelowna (Frank Buckland was mentioned) and other points in the valley.”
From that very first meeting, the following guiding principles have been in place:
- The emphasis was on recording history before it was lost.
- Everyone was encouraged to write their own story. “This can be history.”
- Women were encouraged and involved.
- There was Indigenous involvement and representation.
- The natural history of the Valley was unique and important.
- There was an emphasis on recording history for “future generations.”
The First Annual Report of the Okanagan Historical and Natural History Society was released on September 10, 1926. It had 35 pages and sold for $1. This year, in which the organization celebrates its 100 Anniversary, the Eighty-ninth Report will be published.
To keep up with activities planned for the 2025 year, please check out our newsletters.
