Each year, Avenue Magazine announces its “Top 40 Under 40,” a list of young Calgarians who are making a difference in the community. We were excited to see that two of the recipients were associated with the CPO – Donovan Seidle, our Assistant Concertmaster, and Brendan McCracken, from our Board of Directors. Here’s what Brendan had to say about being selected. Stay tuned for our Q&A with Donovan!

You’re now on the Board of Directors at the CPO, but how did your involvement with the CPO start?

“My involvement with the CPO before joining the Board of Directors was just as a concertgoer. My three daughters and my mother-in-law are regular attendees at the kids concerts.”

What do you enjoy about being involved in the CPO?

“The best part of being involved with the CPO is the tremendous people involved, from our loyal supporters to musicians and staff. It’s a great team.”

What does it mean for you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40?

“Being part of this year’s Top 40 class is a nice recognition, and I very much appreciated the opportunity to shine a light on the CPO and Encana.” (Brendan is the Vice-President and General Manager Central Operations Area for the Encana Corporation).

Are you involved with other not-for-profit organizations?

“Outside of the CPO, I’m involved in two other not-for-profits: MitoCanada is an organization that provides support to people with Mitochondrial disease, and NetworkCalgary is a very grassroots organization that connects Calgary leaders with high school students – I’m actually looking for a successor to carry on my work with NetworkCalgary.”

What advice would you give to someone who is looking to become more involved in the community?  

“I’ve found that the best way to get started being involved in your community is to meet people and seize little opportunities as they come along and let the experience unfold.”