ECPR thanks outgoing Executive Committee and Chair

Next week marks the end of the mandate of our 2021–24 Executive Committee (EC), chaired by David Farrell. On Wednesday 1 May, seven new EC members will join the five ongoing to serve under the Chairship of Daniela Irrera, over the next three years.

Outgoing EC Members, from left to right: David Farrell, Petra Meier, Giliberto Capano, Hana Kubátová, Thomas Saalfeld, Sabine Saurugger

Elected Chair amid the global challenges of 2020, David's deep-rooted connection with ECPR, which began in 1985 at the Joint Sessions of Workshops, underscored his firm commitment to our organisational mission. Throughout his three-year tenure, David's focus on 'building back better' echoed resoundingly, as he and the Executive Committee navigated ECPR through turbulent waters.

Under David's stewardship, we witnessed remarkable growth in the offering to our membership and the broader community. David's dedication to giving back to the organisation has left an indelible mark, signifying a period of exceptional progress for ECPR.

ECPR Director, Tanja Munro, adds:

Throughout his tenure as Chair of the ECPR, David confronted challenges head-on, demonstrating resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity.

David's leadership, amid the complexities of the past three years and the pandemic, has been marked by unwavering dedication and steadfast commitment to fulfilling his many roles, always to the benefit of our community of academics.

As David passes the baton on to Daniela, I would like to extend all of our heartfelt appreciation for his tireless efforts and invaluable contributions to our community.

As his tenure draws to a close, David says:

It has been such a privilege to chair ECPR over the past three years, working closely with my fellow EC members, and with Tanja and her team at Harbour House. ECPR has been so important in developing my own career, and I am incredibly proud to have had this rare opportunity to give something back to this wonderful association.

Our EC has faced choppy enough waters, not least as a result of Covid-19 and its aftermath, but we’ve navigated them successfully. I am delighted with all the achievements we’ve made in progressing the key strategic priorities we set at the start of my term.

This has been one amazing rollercoaster that I will certainly never forget. I wish Daniela and the new EC every success with their term.

David Farrell, ECPR Chair 2021–2024

A word of thanks

ECPR extends heartfelt thanks to the departing Chair and Executive Committee members for their dedication and diligent work over the years.

We wish the very best to David, Sabine, Petra, Hana, Giliberto and Thomas as they step away from their ECPR duties – and look forward to the exciting new projects they will embark upon as active and valued members of our community.