PRA Inc. is sad to announce the passing of Rita Gunn, a founding partner of the firm, on April 17, 2023.
During her long career, Rita made immeasurable contributions to the practice of evaluation in Canada and to the Canadian Evaluation Society (CES). A trained sociologist, she worked with University of Manitoba Research Ltd. early in her career, where she co-authored a monograph on violence against women, which was published by the University of Manitoba Press. She established PRA in 1988 with Greg Mason and Kerry Dangerfield. Together, they grew PRA into one of Canada’s largest evaluation firms.
Rita’s work focused on legal and criminal justice policy, police services, crime prevention, legal aid, family violence, child welfare, community-based health services, and mental health reform. Her work with Indigenous peoples spanned several decades and tackled complex issues related to justice, health and social services.
Rita was a mentor to countless emerging evaluators who joined PRA as new graduates and went on to become partners of the firm or to establish successful careers in government or the private sector.
An active member of CES, she sat on the board of CESEF for many years, during which time she organized some of its most successful silent auctions.
Rita will be fondly remembered by those who knew her professionally for her passion, generosity and sharp intellect. She leaves a lasting legacy on the practice of evaluation in Canada.