It is with sadness that we have to tell you that Mark Abbott died on August 20^th .

Mark was one of the early members of the Academy and was the first facilitator of the popular workshop, the Economist Readers.   Mark was a lively, bright and forthright member of the Academy, and his wit and wisdom will be missed.  He had many interests outside the Academy, such as opera, wine making and travels with his wife and distinguished academy member, Josie Szczasiuk