Who's Who in the CAR

Suzanne Charette

Suzanne is an individual who does not easily go unnoticed. If you have had the pleasure of meeting her you will recognize that she brings to her position some unique strengths. If not, you should take any opportunity to get to know her. Her contagious smile, inherent kindness, strong self-assurance, fearless commitment and deep sense of professionalism are unquestionably of value to the CAR.

Suzanne's background, her skills and experience in both public relations and the clinical setting, and her managerial capabilities have been assets for the executive director of such a diverse group. From her professional start as an oral surgeon's assistant to positions as first technical representative and then manager in well-known radiology and nuclear medicine companies, she has become fully versed in the dynamics of the diagnostic imaging community and its growing importance in modern-day medicine.

When she allows herself to not think about the CAR, you will find her either dashing down a snowy winter slope or, on a warm peaceful night, sailing across a stretch of water. In a sexist era J.P. Morgan wrote that "You can do business with anyone, but you can only sail with a gentleman." Many of us might prefer that that statement recognized how much easier it would be to do either with a lady of Suzanne's stature. Being available to and sharing in the activities of her 8-year-old daughter, Marie-Pier, and her husband, are definite moments of grace for Suzanne, given the little time they can enjoy together. Suzanne and her husband, Pierre Couture, have a charming home full of Canadian art -- a refuge for anyone with time to kill before catching a plane at Montreal's Dorval Airport.

Suzanne's contribution to the CAR has been nothing less than outstanding. Although she often works in the shadow of those with fancy titles and is sometimes (probably often) taken for granted, her work is recognized as the strength underpinning the Association. Her relentless dedication and commitment to the CAR have never been found wanting. And as we approach a new millennium, it is likely that Suzanne's enthusiasm for and commitment to the CAR will continue to surprise. Her ambitions for the CAR are those of fast-paced evolution, innovation and affiliation to meet the coming challenges to our Association in the national and international context of the radiologic community.