Ridgetown Campus is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Simon Lachance as the Assistant Dean Academic. His five-year appointment begins on October 12, 2020.
Lachance is a College Research Professor who has held administrative roles at both Ridgetown Campus and Campus d’Alfred, including program coordinator for the environmental management diploma program, which he has held since 2018.
“I am looking forward to working with the resourceful and inspired team here at Ridgetown Campus,” says Lachance. “We are all committed to training the best skilled graduates in the agri-food and environment sectors.”
The campus offers five associate diploma programs, two certificates and a dairy apprenticeship program. Over 600 students study in agricultural, horticultural, equine, environmental and veterinary academic programs at the campus each year.
“Ridgetown Campus is a fundamental conduit for agricultural training in our province,” says Prof. Rene Van Acker, Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) dean. “Simon and this new role are an important part of future success for the campus. His leadership will ensure the campus is able to take advantage of opportunities, grow its education capacity and adapt in times of change.”
Lachance received his B.Sc. (Agr.) and M.Sc. from Université Laval and his Ph.D. from the University of Guelph. He began his career with the University of Guelph at the Campus d’Alfred and joined the Ridgetown Campus in 2015. He has taught courses in the environmental management, agriculture and horticultural diploma programs.
"Dr. Lachance has a multitude of unique experiences in various academic programs and environments,” says Ken McEwan, Ridgetown Campus director. “He will be a great fit with instructors, academic staff and students and his enthusiasm for student growth and success will positively impact our student's academic experiences."
“I am excited to develop future creative academic initiatives that are adapted to the shifting future of learning and creating a student-focused inclusive environment that will favor excellence and success,” adds Lachance.