The Royal Philatelic Society of Canada (RPSC) Board of Directors has issued its first formal statement since the April 8 resignation of president Gregg Redner, outlining leadership transition plans while reaffirming the Society’s non-political mandate.
In a message to members dated April 15, the Board thanked Redner for his service and acknowledged his contributions since taking office in 2023, noting he had intended to complete his term at the upcoming annual general meeting.
“The RPSC thanks Gregg for his volunteer service and for the many contributions he has made,” the Board stated.
The statement also addressed the circumstances surrounding his departure, confirming Redner’s decision to step down was based on personal principle related to what he described as the “current politics” of the U.S. administration and his decision not to attend the Boston 2026 World Stamp Show.
Redner announced his resignation in a message to members on April 8, citing concerns that his personal decision could affect the Society’s reputation. He had previously said his choice not to attend the international exhibition, scheduled for May 23 to 30, 2026, was a personal one and not intended to reflect the position of the RPSC.
“In every sense, this was a personal decision, based on my own principles,” Redner wrote, adding he did not wish to harm the reputation of the national organization.
In its statement, the Board emphasized that while it respects Redner’s right to take a personal moral stand, the Society itself does not take positions on non-philatelic matters.
“The RPSC is a diverse community with members who have different views. However, as a philatelic organization, the RPSC expresses no official positions on non-philatelic matters,” the statement read.
The Board also used the message to reiterate the scope of the organization, describing it as a volunteer-led, not-for-profit society and the national voice of Canadian philately since 1877. The RPSC includes 75 chapters and more than 800 members in Canada and internationally, with activities focused on promoting the hobby, fostering connections and overseeing exhibiting and judging at all levels.
Plans for leadership continuity were also confirmed. In accordance with the Society’s bylaws, vice-president Peter MacDonald has assumed the responsibilities of president on an interim basis until the conclusion of the next annual general meeting.
Gordon Smith has been appointed executive officer-at-large to support the executive committee during the transition period, working alongside secretary Selene Tang and treasurer John Sharp. A new executive team will be selected by the incoming board following the AGM.
Looking ahead, the Board said it is preparing for the Society’s annual general meeting on May 24, where long-serving members and volunteers will be recognized and updates on the Society’s activities and future plans will be presented.
Members were also encouraged to attend the Royal 2026 Royale convention, scheduled for June in Waterloo, Ont., which will feature competitive exhibits, dealers, educational sessions, youth programming, a banquet and a town hall meeting.