Poland in the Rockies is an initiative of The Polish Canadian Association of Calgary (PCAC). Established in 1931, PCAC has long promoted Polish cultural and social events, including lectures, films, art exhibits and programs for youth. In 2003, PCAC’s then president, Tony Muszynski, proposed the establishment of an educational program designed specifically for university students and young professionals. He has since served as Director of Poland in the Rockies and been assisted in Calgary by the PCAC’s entire membership, led by its President, Grazyna Lukwinska.
PCAC invited The Canadian Foundation for Polish Studies (CFPS) in Montreal to collaborate in the organization of Poland in the Rockies, specifically to design the academic program. CFPS, an integral part of the Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences in Canada, was established in 1997 for the express purpose of organizing public lectures, conferences, film presentations and other programs in the English language in collaboration with universities in Montreal. CFPS’s founding president, Irene Tomaszewski, serves as Curriculum Director for Poland in the Rockies.