News

Name Change Update

Newmarket, Ontario - August 1, 2000  Our name change campaign officially wrapped up on March 15^th but this endeavor is not only alive and well, but also one step closer to completion.

The name selection committee performed the admirable task of narrowing 968 submissions down to four finalists. Although it was not initially anticipated, this presented yet another opportunity to involve staff and community residents in the selection process.

It was decided that a series of focus groups would provide the most effective method of gathering opinions and emotions toward the proposed names. As such, four focus groups were conducted over a two-day period. Two groups included a list of 12 randomly selected staff who represented all of the various disciplines within the hospital, and the other two groups included residents of the many communities in our catchment area. Each group had a moderator who asked participants to provide their honest responses to a series of questions regarding the four final names.

This process was a very interesting one that revealed a broad array of comments. After evaluating those comments it became clear that 53% of the participants included one particular name in their top two choices. However, comments were also made that this name was too long and perhaps too geographically specific.

This feedback was presented to the name selection committee in a meeting on Thursday, July 6^th. The committee very seriously reviewed the many comments made by focus group participants and in response, decided to exercise their ability to modify the name as dictated by the published list of campaign rules and regulations.

The committee unanimously and very enthusiastically agreed on the modified name that was brought forward. It was then presented to the Board of Directors on July 17^th and once again received unanimous approval from each Board member. These groups feel extremely confident that the approved name is not only an outstanding selection, but is also a true reflection of our organization as it represents the amalgamated efforts of the hospital and the community.

Before an unveiling can occur the name must be registered with the Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations. This process can take anywhere from 30 to 120 days; however, we are hopeful that we will be able to make the announcement in September 2000 - until then, we're sworn to secrecy!

As we get closer to the crescendo of this much-anticipated event, we would like to extend a very sincere thanks to all those who have participated by offering their support, submitting their creative ideas or donating their time and expertise to the advance of the campaign.