Students shared powerful reflections on the impact their chosen teachers had on their lives, highlighting the dedication, compassion, and humour these educators brought to the classroom. For some, the most influential teachers were also the toughest—those who held them to high standards because they genuinely believed in their ability to succeed.

“My mom went to a parent-teacher conference. I had an excellent report card—except for all the classes I had with one teacher, Ms. Margaret Wiens. My grades in her class were thirty percent lower than every other class,” shared Christine Hay, the outstanding student selected from the Faculty of Education. “The rural school I attended was a Grade 4 to 12 school, with no high school art programming at all. Margaret Wiens was a teacher who saw the value of art in education. So, when I decided in Grade 12, four years later, that I wanted to apply to the School of Art at UM with no arts training at all, it was Ms. Wiens who learned how to build an entrance portfolio and mentored me through the entire process—during her lunches, her preps, and after school. I did end up getting direct entry into the School of Art. It is with deep gratitude that I stand here today and thank you, 23 years later, for showing up every day with grit, for showing me grace, and for being an example of how I hope to show up for my future students.”

Left image from left to right, Yvonne Fenner, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, outstanding student, Ms. Margaret Hart, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, outstanding teacher. Right image from left to right, Mr.  Ron Constant, Joe A. Ross School, outstanding teacher, Yvonne Fenner, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, outstanding student

This year’s Students’ Teacher Recognition Reception was held on May 5 bringing together students, their selected teachers, faculty representatives, and invited guests for an afternoon of meaningful celebration. The event was hosted by The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning and emceed by the Centre’s Director, Dr. Erica Jung.

Dr. Diane Hiebert-Murphy, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) brought greetings and shared her own reflections on the educators who made a lasting impact in her life. “I think back to my high school teachers’ who encouraged me to recognize potential that I didn’t fully see in myself, and some University Professors who helped shape the direction of my academic life, and ultimately my professional life. These individuals will never fully appreciate or know the impact that they had on me, but I certainly think about them every year when I come to this reception.”

Throughout the afternoon, students spoke not only about the academic guidance they received but also the personal support their teachers offered—support that extended beyond the classroom. Many shared stories of educators who cared deeply, often becoming mentors, role models, and even friends.

Yvonne Fenner, the outstanding student from the College of Rehabilitation Sciences, spoke with heartfelt appreciation about the many ways her selected teachers supported her. “It wasn’t only the educational part of this journey that she helped me with. Ms. Margaret Hart was there for me on a personal note, as I have called on her many times in the last two years.” Ms. Margaret Hart, a First Nations Indigenous educator in the health sciences, shared that the presence of Indigenous students carries deep personal significance. “I’m there to nurture the students’ learning, but also, I’m there to nurture their identities too”—a sentiment that reflects a commitment not only to academic growth but to personal and cultural growth as well.

Following the ceremony, attendees had a chance to mingle, take photos, and reflect on the meaningful connections that helped shape their journeys.

Faculty of Law student Alessandro Potenza put it best: “I know that we were not uniquely smart, but instead, that we had a uniquely exceptional teacher.” A sentiment echoed by many—while talent may open the door, it’s great educators who help students walk through it.

For a full list of award recipients, please visit our webpage.

It’s a daunting mix for young farmers. Land prices are soaring, production costs are climbing, interest rates are uncertain. And that’s not to mention the mix of international politics, market volatility and weather woes that are breeding black swans at historic rates.

With 2024 almost here, it’s hard to be any age. But how would you like to be young and at college or university, trying to prepare for the smart choices it’s going to take if the farm is ever going to survive.

Seriously, what will it take to succeed in farming until 2060?

Riley Buchanan is a sixth-generation beginning farmer on the family farm a half hour north of Winnipeg that he returned to after graduating with a University of Manitoba ag diploma this past spring. Now his aim is to keep clear-eyed.

To read the full story, please visit Country Guide.

AWARD WINNERS

Diploma medal winners include Callum Fortin who received the Governor General’s Bronze Medal, an award given to the graduate with the highest academic standing in the two-year Diploma Program in Agriculture.

Riley Kehler received the President’s Medal, given annually to a student who combines scholarship with outstanding qualities and has demonstrated leadership to the members of the graduating class throughout their time enrolled in their program.

Degree program medals are presented to students with the highest standing in their program. This year’s recipients include Andrew De Pape who received the B.Sc. (Agribusiness) Medal; Milan Lukes who received the B.Sc. (Agriculture) Medal; Maryna Plaksii who received the B.Sc. (Agroecology) Medal; Thuc Quyen Nguyen who received the B.Sc. (Food Science) Medal; and Zeta Ward who received the B.Sc. (Human Nutritional Sciences) Medal.

Mireille Krul who graduated with a B.Sc. (Agriculture) in Animal Systems was honoured with the University Gold Medal in Agricultural and Food Sciences given for the highest grade point average.

Milan Lukes who graduated with a B.Sc. (Agriculture) in Plant Biotechnology was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Gold Medal, given on the basis of scholarship, personal excellence and leadership.

Joel Gardener was honoured with the Governor General’s Gold Medal (Ph.D), awarded for outstanding achievement at the doctoral graduate level.

The School of Agriculture Teacher of the Year Awards were presented in recognition of teaching excellence and contribution to the students’ program of study. The First Year award, selected by first-year diploma students, was given to Bailey Delf, School of Agriculture. The Second Year award, selected by the graduating class of diploma students, went to Garrett Sawatzky, School of Agriculture.

Degree students named Kathleen Wilson, School of Agriculture, as Professor of the Year, an honour voted on by the graduating class.

Meet some of the members of the Class of 2024.

RILEY KEHLER
Diploma in Agriculture
(recipient of the President’s Medal – Diploma in Agriculture, among others) 

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

I chose the agriculture diploma partially based on a recommendation from the employer I wanted to work for, and partially for myself to better prepare for the ag industry I was entering.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

My favorite memory of the program will absolutely be the people I met and the friends I made. Ag is a relatively small industry and since we’ve finished, I’ve already bumped into classmates through work, and kept in contact with many regardless as well.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO YOURSELF BEFORE YOU STARTED YOUR PROGRAM, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?

Just enjoy it for what it is. I’m older than most of my classmates were, and while I saw the value of the diploma, in the moment it wasn’t always something I wanted to be doing with my time. But the time goes by very quick, and I’ll look back fondly on the time. So, for myself and many others that feel the same, just enjoy this very short stage of life, take it for what it is, and let it add to your value and experience as you head into a long work force ahead.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

I got a job following school at GJ Chemical in Arnaud. They are an agronomic servicing chemical retail where I’ll be a sales agronomist. I’ve worked for this company group in the past pre-diploma, which piqued my interest in ag and inspired me to get my diploma, so I’m happy to be returning full time following graduation.

ANYTHING ELSE TO ADD?

While I had a couple opportunities outside of the school for work, I was surprised how many work opportunities there were through the school. In the form of job fairs and just meeting people it isn’t difficult to get a job following grad. There is so much opportunity in this industry so if anyone is looking for a quick way to get a good career, I think the agriculture diploma is a good step in doing so.

RACHEL AKONG
Bachelor of Science in Human Nutritional Sciences (Dietetics)
(recipient of the Elizabeth Lewis Rose Memorial Book Prize in Human Nutritional Sciences) 

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

Holding multiple degrees from McGill University in a variety of specialties and having worked for several years as a pediatric physician assistant in Quebec, I knew that this wasn’t the sector of healthcare I wanted to work in for the rest of my life. Many western medical practices go against my ethos as a healthcare practitioner, so I decided to investigate a host of other medical and allied health professions that interested me to make a career switch. Dietetics kept coming back to the top of the list throughout my research and it’s funny because I almost studied dietetics at McGill back in 2015 but instead, I acquired another degree in pharmacology. The provision of healthcare through food and nutrition as well as the overall dedication to a holistic approach to health is what drew me to dietetics as these concepts fit with my practice style. Dietetics will also enable me to live a much less stressful life and you cannot put a price on quality of life!

FAVOURITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

As someone who fears public speaking, it is ironic that my most favourite moment of the program should be a presentation and skit that my colleagues (shout out to Emily and Hiwot!) and I put on in Clinical Nutrition II taught by instructor Bradley Feltham. We got so many laughs, and it was such a fun and unique experience. I hope this assignment stays on the syllabus for many years to come.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO YOURSELF BEFORE YOU STARTED YOUR PROGRAM, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?

I would say: do not take Vitamins (HNSC 3300) and Clinical I/II (HNSC 4500 and HNSC 4550) at the same time! These three courses nearly took out half of the graduating class this past year, so to all those planning your schedules, take Vitamins in year 3 (or year 2 if you’re in the second-degree program)! I would also tell myself to slow down and enjoy the process a little more rather than getting caught up in the minutia of student life.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

This past year was a grueling one, so I decided to take some time off to work and enjoy life as an “adult” again before applying to the MAHN program to become a clinical dietitian. Once I complete that part of the process and pass the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE), I intend on specializing in women’s health with a special focus on fertility and hormonal dysregulation. After a few years working in hospital (fingers crossed), I plan to start my own private practice and have also been entertaining the idea of establishing mobile dietetic services in Winnipeg alongside many of my colleagues from this program so that we can provide service to clients all over the city and possibly extending into some rural areas.

NATHAN KRAHN
Diploma in Agriculture
(co-valedictorian and recipient of the James Farms Award, among others)

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

I chose this program because of recommendations from others who had done the Agriculture Diploma program or been a panelist for the final presentation. This program is designed for students pursuing schooling in agriculture to grow in understanding day-to-day farming operations like crop/livestock planning and management, financial literacy, marketing, etc.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

My favourite memory from the program would be our Experiential Learning weeks when we were able to get out of the classroom and experience how real farms and agricultural businesses work.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO YOURSELF BEFORE YOU STARTED YOUR PROGRAM, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?

If I could give myself advice when starting the program, it would be to ask more questions. That is something I grew in over time during the program but could have started sooner.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

I am currently working at an Agriculture Retail company named Terraco in Ile des Chenes, MB. I am here to learn about agronomy, sales, and supply chains before moving home to farm at Rivers, MB with my family in a few years.

MIREILLE KRUL
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Animal Systems)
(recipient of the UM Gold Medal, Agricultural and Food Sciences, among others)

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

I grew up on farms and always loved agriculture, especially the animal side of it. Agriculture is always changing and improving, which is exciting, and feeding people is important.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

One of my favorite parts about my program is all the field trips we got to go on. Visiting different farms and seeing the practical application of what we learned in class was interesting and fun.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO YOURSELF BEFORE YOU STARTED YOUR PROGRAM, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?

If I talked to myself before I started my program, I would tell myself to be intentional about connecting with people at university. Everyone has interesting stories to share, and having diverse friends and acquaintances makes university much more exciting.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

I have been accepted to start a master’s program in Animal Science at Wageningen University starting this fall. I’m very excited!

Joel Gardner

Governor General’s Gold Medal (Ph.D)     
(for outstanding performance at the graduate level)

Doctor of Philosophy: Agricultural Food Sciences 

While studying native bees in Itasca State Park for his master’s degree, Joel Gardner saw an opportunity to improve research on these important insects. Gardner crossed the Canada-U.S. boarder to study under Dr. Jason Gibbs in a niche field – bee taxonomy.

“Because pollinators are so important, a lot of research gets done on bees, but the researchers involved in that work are typically more ecologically-focused,” says Gardner.  “They don’t know how to tell a Lasioglossum deludens from a L. microlepoides, yet telling the difference is critical or else their results will be wrong.  What they usually do then is ship their bees to taxonomists and hope they have time to identify them …  I hope I can keep describing and naming those species and writing keys to aid identification, so we can get rid of this “taxonomic bottleneck” hindering bee and pollinator research!”

While at UM Gardner worked in molecular labs for the first time, picking up new skills and learning cutting-edge techniques in just two years.

Gardner also collaborated with a researcher from Germany which lead to the discovery of seven new species of bees from the Yucatán peninsula. Gardner’s efforts were also cited in several ecology-focused papers, including one highly-cited on the importance of rare bees to pollination.

Outside of UM, Gardner led bumble bee surveys at FortWhyte Alive, helping the public catch wild bees, and identify the species. The results of these surveys were the first detection of Bombus impatiens in Manitoba, and the finding of low but stable numbers of the threatened Bombus occidentalis in the park.

Reflecting on university years, Gardner offers some important advice: “It’s easy to get burned out if you’re only working for what you think will get you a good career in the future.  The key is to take enjoyment and pride from the work itself.”

Lily Pankratz

Governor General’s Gold Medal (Master’s)            
(for outstanding performance at the graduate level)

Master of Arts: Arts 

After receiving her undergraduate degree at UM, Lily Pankratz was inspired to pursue graduate studies as a way to continue research in the community. Clinical psychology, she says, “felt like the perfect fit to bridge research and clinical work to improve mental health services.”

During her time, she was involved in several research projects including one that examined the impacts of COVID-19 in the ICU. The research team interviewed healthcare providers, families, and patients during early phases of the pandemic, shining a light on the difficult experiences so many Canadians faced revealing important implications for hospital policies.

Beyond her studies, Pankratz volunteered for Justice for Women, a university led anti-sexual violence community organization. She was also the clinical psychology student representative, and the graduate student representative for department council, executive council in psychology.

She plans to continue graduate studies with a PhD focusing on an intervention for individuals experiencing chronic pain, with a long-term goal of developing, piloting, and eventually providing this service to Manitobans.

Her advice for those entering post-secondary: “Join the club, email the professor, attend the workshop. It can be so daunting to come to university, especially if you do not know anyone, but when you start building connections, you will slowly meet new people, receive mentorship and support to help you along your academic journey.”

Jasmin Lee Tang

Governor General’s Silver Medal
(for the undergraduate student who achieves the highest academic standing in a Bachelor degree program)

Bachelor of Science – Major

Jasmin Lee Tang has had a lifelong fascination with the origins and maintenance of all forms of life. Some of her fondest memories as a kid are of trips to the zoo and botanical gardens; her favourite childhood book was a Canadian Medical Association guide on children’s illnesses. So, it seemed only natural for her to pursue a degree in biological sciences.

Tang continues to be drawn to both the human and earthly sciences, explaining: “My ambition is to contribute to improving humanity’s ability to look after itself and/or our fellow species. Whether this means becoming directly involved in Canada’s healthcare system or conducting studies to inform policies on the world’s current climate crisis, I remain optimistic and determined to help bring about positive change.”

While at UM, she received an Undergraduate Student Research Award to work in Dr. Jeffrey Marcus’ lab using molecular genetics and genomics techniques for studying the evolution of butterfly colour patterns. She was also employed as a public health program assistant with the Manitoba government.

Tang encourages current undergraduate students to enjoy the present moment. “It’s much more rewarding to take things at your own pace and embrace the journey of self-discovery. Undergraduate students are often granted an exceptional amount of freedom to explore potential career paths before fully entering the workforce! Completing your degree requirements doesn’t need to feel like a sprint to the finish line.”

Logan Hiebert

Governor General’s Silver Medal 
(for the undergraduate student who achieves the highest academic standing in a Bachelor degree program)

Bachelor of Arts 

An aspiring law school student, Logan Hiebert chose to make her undergraduate degree one that would not only benefit her end goal, but one she would thoroughly enjoy.

“My love and passion for English literature and the study and analysis of it is unparalleled, so the choice was clear,” she explains, adding that her time in UM’s English department was “life-changing”. She credits the professors there, particularly Dr. David Watt and Dr. Michelle Faubert, for her growth as both writer and student, learning how to love learning and express herself in her own voice.

Alongside her studies, she volunteered coaching soccer at her former high school and participated in a variety of intramural sports and rec league volleyball and soccer.

She offers these words of wisdom to current undergraduate students: “Approach school with an open mind that is open to criticism and accepting of less than perfect grades, but maintain a commitment to using every resource available that will help you achieve your goals. Enjoy yourself! Having fun will not impede your ability to succeed!”

Callum Fortin

Governor General’s Bronze Medal
(for the undergraduate student who achieves the highest academic standing in the Diploma in Agriculture program)

Diploma in Agriculture

Hailing from a family farm in Souris, Manitoba, Callum Fortin always knew he wanted to pursue agriculture. The skills he acquired at UM will help him and his brothers continue the family business for generations to come.

Initially nervous to leave the farm during the busy season, he quickly realized he was surrounded by likeminded students and experts who would provide excellent support throughout the journey.

Through the diploma in agriculture program, Fortin made many connections in Manitoba’s farming community and is motivated to become more involved upon graduation including joining commodity boards, doing research on farm trials and educating through programs such as Ag in the Classroom.

Stacey Urban

Governor General’s Bronze Medal
(for highest standing in a diploma program of at least two years other than diploma Agriculture)

Diploma Dental Hygiene

A self-described lifelong learner with a curious attitude, Stacey Urban chose a career in dental hygiene as a way to create a positive impact and help people – something she experienced first-hand as a student.

One of her most meaningful assignments saw her and a classmate travel to Churchill, Manitoba for their community health course. There, they provided oral health information to community members, presented in the classrooms, and performed dental screenings for children in the local school. The experience instilled in her a passion for community-based dental hygiene care.

In the future, she aims to use her collaboration skills to advocate for people with limited access to oral health care, prioritizing person-centered care and practicing cultural humility.

Jamie Chi Yan Wan
Diploma in Agriculture

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

After working in a University farm in Hong Kong for six years, I would like to pursue a more professional career in the ag industry, that’s why I came all the way to Canada to take the Agriculture Diploma program. I believe that I made the right choice as I am now enjoying working under the vast Prairie sky, operating farm machinery, engaging in fieldwork and applying the knowledge I gained from the Ag Dip program.

YOU JUST CAME THROUGH A VERY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE (I.E. UNIVERSITY DURING COVID) – WHAT WAS THAT LIKE?

As someone accustomed to attending in-person lectures, adapting to online classes and seeing my classmates confined to little grey boxes on Zoom was quite challenging. However, this experience also introduced me to new modes of communication that undoubtedly proved valuable when we returned to the traditional classroom setting. But personally I still prefer having personal interaction with my classmates and instructors.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

One of my favourite memories of the program was our field trips, where we had the opportunity to learn outside the classroom. Visiting various agricultural operations and attending events like the bison ranch, Ag Days, KAP AGM, dairy farms, seed company, flower producer and Oak Hammock Marsh allowed me to gain valuable insights into local farms and the supporting communities.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

After completing the Agriculture Diploma program, my next step is to return to school to complete my degree program. Through my experience as a summer technician in a research company, I discovered a strong interest in a research-oriented career in the agricultural field, with the ultimate goal of contributing to the community by generating valuable agricultural knowledge. This has motivated me to further my education and enhance my skills in this field.

Fatima Saqib
Bachelor of Science (Human Nutritional Sciences)

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

The Human Nutritional Science degree is the best mixture of applied science, health studies, and food production to provide a holistic understanding of how what we eat impacts our health. The program also leads to various career opportunities, such as working as a registered dietitian.

YOU JUST CAME THROUGH A VERY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE (I.E. UNIVERSITY DURING COVID) – WHAT WAS THAT LIKE?

There were both positives and negatives of online learning. I felt like I had more time to do other activities, as I could watch lectures when most convenient for me. However, I missed out on the ‘real’ school experience, didn’t get to explore campus as much, and wish I got to know my classmates better.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

Planning nutrition and health related events for the faculty!

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

I will be starting medical school at the U of M this fall!

LaDawn Duerksen
Bachelor of Science (Human Nutritional Sciences – Dietetics – 2nd degree)

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

I graduated with a B. Human Ecology (Foods) in 2001 and planned to pursue a career in food research. My life took a different direction though and I ended up spending almost 20 years in the social services field, helping women adjust to motherhood. During COVID, I took the opportunity to return to university to complete the nutrition component of my degree and better align my love of food science with my joy of helping families with everyday life skills.

YOU JUST CAME THROUGH A VERY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE (I.E. UNIVERSITY DURING COVID) – WHAT WAS THAT LIKE?

I was nervous to return to university as a mature student, so learning on-line for the first year helped to ease myself in. Being back on campus for the last year was at first a stretch, but I ended up really enjoying meeting my fellow students and felt much more energized being around everyone in person. I met some really incredible new friends and appreciated their acceptance of me.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

My favorite memory is the 4140 Food Quantity Labs. Working together as a team to make a lunch menu was fun, community building and rewarding. We laughed as we worked together to solve mistakes and got our lab coats very stained with all sorts of splatters!

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

This summer I am working as a research assistant under Dr. Protudjer at the Protudjer Food Allergy Lab. In September, I will be starting the Masters of Applied Human Nutrition program and will see where I end up landing after that.

Tanner Olmstead
Diploma in Agriculture

WHY DID YOU PICK YOUR PROGRAM?

I chose the diploma program as I wanted to expand my knowledge in farm management and learn better agronomic practices, and also to network and make connections in the ag industry.

YOU JUST CAME THROUGH A VERY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE (I.E. UNIVERSITY DURING COVID) – WHAT WAS THAT LIKE?

University during covid was not ideal for networking but helped me save money and maintain a better GPA than I would have gotten in person.

FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR PROGRAM?

My advice for a student considering it would be do it! There are lots of opportunities to learn and make connections in the industry.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

Next, I am going to work in Australia for harvest and then come back to the family farm where I will live out the rest of my days.

Jill Verwey and Ian Steppler received Certificates of Merit, presented by the Faculty and the School of Agriculture in recognition of leadership with agricultural organizations and outstanding service to the community at large. To date, 90 individuals have been acknowledged for their contributions since the award was first presented in 1981.

L to R: Dean Martin Scanlon, Certificate of Merit recipient Jill Verwey and nominator Dr. Don Flaten.

Jill Verwey

Jill Verwey was raised on her family’s mixed farm northwest of Neepawa, which has been owned and operated by her family for over 147 years. She completed the Diploma in Agriculture program at the University of Manitoba in 1988.

After graduation, Jill spent 13 years in agricultural and commercial lending, before shifting her focus to the multigeneration, family-owned crop, dairy, and beef farm operated by her husband, Ray, and his brothers south of Portage la Prairie, MB. Jill and Ray also raised four children: Rachael, Lindsay, Brice, and Randi.

Jill’s main role on the farm is financial management, record keeping, human resources, and acting as the farm’s representative in many commodity organizations. That role prompted Jill to join the advisory committee for the Dairy Farmers of Manitoba. With Keystone Agricultural Producers, she began as a district delegate, a member of grains and oilseed committee, and then chair of committees related to finance, livestock, human resource, and rural policy. She was elected to KAP’s board of directors and then elected as vice president. In January 2023, Jill became the first woman to be elected as president of KAP.

Through her role as KAP’s president, she was elected to the board of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture where she sits as western representative on the board’s executive. Jill also was nominated by KAP as grain producer for the Western Grains Research Foundation board of directors, where she is a member of the governance committee and Manitoba’s representative on the WGRF executive. Jill supports local agricultural research through the Crop Research Organization of Portage, which is a local not-for-profit organization responsible for local research for its farmer members in Portage area.

Jill has always been an advocate for agriculture. She volunteered with Ag in the Classroom, helped with breakfast programs at local schools, and hosted tours of the Verweys’ farm for local school classes and agriculture students from the University of Manitoba. Jill also hosted the general public on their farm during Open Farm Day. Jill and Ray always encouraged their children to participate in their local 4H club, and Jill volunteered as a 4H club leader for many years.

Jill’s other community contributions include service on boards to the Portage Curling Club, the Homestead Coop and the Portage General Hospital Foundation. She has also assisted with community fund-raising, beginning with helping to organize a ladies’ snowmobile ride for breast cancer awareness for several years. Jill and her Verwey family farm partners also hosted the first “Growing for STARS” fundraising event for STARS Air Ambulance service in Manitoba. The Verwey farm was the first farm to do so and now it continues as an important event for STARS, raising awareness and support for this important service in rural Manitoba.

In 2020, the Verweys’ farm was recognized Manitoba’s Farm Family of the Year at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair. Jill was also honored in 2020 with an Excellence in Agriculture Award presented by the Chamber of Commerce in Portage la Prairie for her “outstanding contribution to Agriculture.”

Jill has maintained a strong and supportive connection with the University of Manitoba. She serves regularly as a panel member for the Diploma farm management presentations. Three of Jill’s and Ray’s children have furthered their education in agriculture at the U of M, with Lindsay and Brice completing their Agriculture Diplomas and Rachael completing her B.Sc. in Agriculture.

L to R: Nominator Sue Clatyon, Certificate of Merit recipient Ian Steppler, Dean Martin Scanlon, and nominator Dr. Rob Currie.

Ian Steppler

Ian Steppler grew up near Deerwood, MB, on a multi-generational family farm. Ian’s grandfather purchased the farm in 1921, and Ian’s parents Dan and Pat built a grain and purebred Charolais cattle operation, on which they raised their four sons. Through succession planning and incorporation, the farm was restructured into a large grain, cattle, and beekeeping operation called Steppler Farms, with the brothers each managing different elements.

After high school, Ian graduated from the Diploma in Agriculture program at the University of Manitoba in 1999. His passion for keeping honey bees which got its start from his time as a student in the School of Agriculture. A pivotal decision to take the beekeeping course – as a way to achieve his final two credit hours needed to graduate – led him to purchase four colonies of honey bees in 1999, which turned into over 200 colonies in 2002. He rapidly expanded to the point where he now manages over 1500 colonies as part of Steppler Farms honey operations and is a full-time commercial beekeeper. They produce 400-450 barrels annually, and hire a full time staff member and 5-6 local students every summer season.

His dedication to the beekeeping industry is immense and he has played a transformative role through his many contributions. He has served as Vice President and President of the Manitoba Beekeepers Association (MBA), guiding the industry through difficult issues related to colony losses, as well as bee and labour shortages. He is also leading new initiatives that will serve the industry going forward. For example, as Chair of the MBA research committee, Ian was the driving force behind the establishment of the Knowledge Research Transfer Program (KRTP) a program that will provide extension services to help mitigate future losses of bees as well as conduct demonstration trials that will help to transfer research innovation to use by industry. He now additionally chairs the Steering committee for the KRTP and is overseeing its continuing formation and funding.

He has contributed to service in the broader agricultural community beyond just “bees”. For example, in 2022 he was invited to join the Agricultural Advisory Committee established by the then Minister of Agriculture Ralph Eichler to facilitate communication between the government and agricultural commodity organizations. Ian has also served as a director of the Deerwood Watershed Authority. His concerns over environmental stewardship were recognized through the Canadian Federation of Agriculture “Farmer Rancher Pollination Conservation Award” in 2020. Steppler Farms was also presented with the 2018 Pembina Valley Conservation Award.

Ian has a strong philosophy of giving back by mentoring young farmers and budding beekeepers, and he is extraordinarily generous with his time. He has been a regular final presentation panelist for the School of Agriculture and has also presented to the School’s small business classes on several occasions.

He is known as a “rock star” in the bee world. His Canadian Beekeepers Blog on YouTube has over 85,000 subscribers, and his regular videos (he has posted over 1,000) have collectively gained over 30 million views. He is regularly invited to speak at conferences on beekeeping and has done so both live and by video conference at locations in Canada, the United States and Europe where he shares his unique perspectives on the industry.

Ian and wife Sandy currently live with their five children Lori, Michael, April, Charlie, and Lea on the farm.

LaDawn Duerksen, human nutritional sciences students, was selected as the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences student, and she chose Dr. Snehil Dua, Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, as her UM honouree.

At the reception, LaDawn shared that Dr. Dua challenged her students to learn and be educated in real world practical life learning lessons, not just theory.

“She uses humor, personal side stories and creative evaluation strategies to engage her students. She creates a safe space where every student is respected, no question is a dumb question and tangents were frequent when needed for explanation on more difficult concepts,” said LaDawn.

James Bashford, School of Agriculture’s exceptional student honoured Farm Management Instructor Garrett Sawatzky

James Bashford, student in the Diploma in Agriculture program, was selected as the School of Agriculture’s exceptional student and he chose Farm Management Instructor Garrett Sawatzky as his UM teacher to recognize.

James noted that Garrett is not only a farm management instructor in the agricultural diploma program but also a farmer himself, augmenting his teaching with personal experience and knowledge from his own farm.

“He is an enthusiastic, engaging and dedicated teacher who made his lectures engaging and relevant using examples from his own farm and from current issues in agriculture. He has helped to teach me how to manage a farm efficiently, sustainably and profitably,” said James.

Watch the reception speeches by LaDawn and James on the University of Manitoba YouTube Channel.

A group of agriculture students say farmers should be incentivized to combat herbicide-resistant kochia by growing perennial forages.

The weed is spreading faster than ever in Manitoba, and something must be done “before we have to return to historic practices of hand-picking weeds,” University of Manitoba student Richard Davy told Keystone Agricultural Producers members on Jan. 24.

Davy and classmates from the University of Manitoba’s agriculture diploma program attended KAP’s annual general meeting, where they proposed a resolution to the membership.

Instructor Reg Dyck has groups of students propose and debate resolutions during their “Issues in Agriculture and Food” class. The students choose one resolution to bring to KAP.

The resolution asked KAP to lobby the federal and provincial governments to develop an incentive program in which farmers affected by herbicide resistant kochia could receive up to $50 per acre per year to grow a four-year rotation of alfalfa or other perennial forage on the affected land.

Read the whole story.

Michele has dedicated her career to the advancement of agricultural education and training, retiring in 2022 from the University of Manitoba, School of Agriculture after 33 years of service. She spearheaded a critical revitalization of the two-year Diploma in Agriculture program, transforming the curriculum into one of the top applied farm management and production agriculture training programs in Canada. As part of the renewed curriculum, Michele engaged with industry technology partners to integrate digital agriculture which resulted in a new course titled “Agricultural Technologies for Farm Management Decision Making” which has brought together agricultural tech firms with students to explore and evaluate instrumentation and digital analysis platforms at the University of Manitoba’s Carman research station and on their own farms.

Under her guidance, the School of Agriculture has established itself as a farm safety education and training leader, and Michele facilitated a collaboration with Brokenhead Ojibway Nation to incorporate growing Indigenous foods and medicines, exploring sustainable food systems, nutrition, land stewardship and business practices.

According to student feedback, Michele’s farm instructors made one of the best pivots to deliver effective online offerings during the COVID shutdowns on campus. Most of her team of instructors were mentored by Michele as her students.

Throughout her career, Michele served on a number of industry boards including the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council, and as Chair of the Canadian Association of Diplomas in Agriculture Program.

Michele was nominated by Derek Brewin, Chris Hamblin, and Martin Scanlon to receive the 2022 Wilson Loree Award.

Here is some of what Michele’s colleagues had to say about her contributions to affecting positive change in farm business management:

“Michele is a deserving candidate for the award, as she has truly made extraordinary contributions for positive change in farm business management practices and expertise in Canada. Her hard work and dedication to agricultural education, particularly in the areas of farm management and applied agriculture training, have transformed our Diploma in Agriculture program and benefited current students, alumni and our industry as a whole.”

“I cannot think of an individual who is more deserving of this recognition, both in her dedication to training tomorrow’s leaders in agricultural management and her role as a mentor to young professionals in Manitoba and across the country.”

“She is a ‘connector’, bringing together members of the agricultural community in the communal goal of enhancing and delivering modern relevant agricultural training.”

“Over the last decade, she has been passionate about ensuring that diploma graduates are prepared to succeed in agribusiness and farm management. Under her watch, the program has been updated to reflect modern agricultural practices and innovations through experiential learning, incorporating new technologies and strengthening high-level decision-making skills.”

“I would like to highlight the incredible impact Michele Rogalsky has had on the people around her. She has been a mentor to students, young professionals and her colleagues, guiding and encouraging them to pursue career-advancing opportunities. She has worked quietly to build up others, and is often the person nominating others for awards, which is why I am so pleased to be able to support this nomination of Michele.”

“Michele, quite simply, is a force of nature who sees a challenge, builds a team, and works with the individuals in the team to achieve their individual and team goals. Those successes have improved agricultural education and more broadly, the future of our agricultural industry.” 

“By far though, Michele’s greatest attribute has been her leadership and her mentorship in the Manitoba agricultural community. Her knowledge and expertise has been widely sought by colleagues and policy-makers and Michele ensures that she is available to those who have need of her advice.” 

“She is an inspiring example of how an educator, colleague and mentor can influence and lift up the efforts of those around them.”

“She truly exemplifies the aims of the Wilson Loree Award, working tirelessly to advance farm business management training to support the Canadian farming community now and into the future.”

Wilson Loree retired as Branch Head of Agriculture Business Management after 27 years with Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. The Award was created in 2002 in Wilson’s name by Farm Management Canada. Wilson is cited as “an individual who exemplifies innovation, wisdom, and a constant focus on the farm manager and the farm family.” Currently Wilson resides in Calgary, Alberta. 

About Farm Management Canada

A national umbrella for Canadian farm business management activity, Farm Management Canada is the only organization devoted exclusively to the development and delivery of advanced business management information, tools and resources to position Canada’s farmers for success. Farm Management Canada’s programs and activities are made possible through support from generous sponsors and supporters.