U of G Boosts Agri-Food Outreach

April 26, 2007 - Campus Bulletin

The University of Guelph today announced that it is increasing outreach efforts dedicated to promoting the importance of Ontario’s agri-food sector. As part of that activity, Rob McLaughlin, current associate vice-president (research) agri-food and partnerships, will devote full-time attention to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. McLaughlin has served as chair and president of the Royal for the past year in addition to his U of G duties.

“This recognizes and builds on the remarkable job that Rob McLaughlin, CEO Bill Duron and the Royal’s staff have done with this annual event, both in terms of making it a financial success and in showing all of Canada the importance of agriculture in an increasingly urbanized world,” said U of G president Alastair Summerlee.

Added Duron: “The Royal continues to evolve, moving from being a 10-day affair into a year-round promotion of agricultural and educational outreach that requires increased energy and efforts.”

Summerlee noted that the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has increased its support for the annual event, opening new avenues for highlighting the importance of investing in agriculture, which is Ontario’s second-largest industry.

McLaughlin, who served as dean of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College from 1990 to 2000, said this new focus will allow him to look for new opportunities to increase understanding of the power of the bioeconomy in Canada, particularly in downtown Toronto and with centres of innovation such as MaRS.

“The Royal continues to grow in size, scope and popularity, attracting new visitors from across Canada and the world," he said. "It is the perfect venue for us to promote innovative research and ideas.”

Vice-president (research) Alan Wildeman said he looks forward to working with McLaughlin on developing additional ways to enhance U of G’s outreach efforts. The University will continue to work closely with OMAFRA on renegotiating its partnership agreement, he said.