As the 1st International Conference on Canadian Agri-food & Rural Advisory, Extension, and Education (CAREE) drew to a close at the PCH Centre, the energy in the room was anything but final.
Dr. John Cranfield, Dean of the Ontario Agricultural College, led the Closing & Plenary III session — a thoughtful reflection on the future of agri-food systems and rural advisory work in Canada. Facilitators Ataharul Chowdhury and Rebeca Lee guided the discussion with insight and warmth, creating space for an engaging exchange of ideas.
The panel brought together distinguished voices shaping the sector’s future: The Honourable Robert Black, Senator for Ontario; Keith Currie, President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture; and Brent Preston, President of Farmers for Climate Solutions. Together, they explored how collaboration, innovation, and education can drive meaningful change in agriculture and rural communities.
The session closed not with finality, but with a renewed sense of purpose — a collective commitment to keep growing, learning, and leading.
