OLDS — The Olds College of Agriculture & Technology (OCAT) has a new chairman of its board of governors: Ted Menzies, and three new public board members.
Menzies was appointed to that position by the province’s Advanced Education ministry. The appointment was announced in a news release issued June 1 by the college.
He replaces Leona Staples of the Innisfail area who had served as board chair since May 2017.
The three new public board members appointed are former Mountain View County reeve Al Kemmere; former Olds Regional Exhibition manager Tracy Gardner who is now executive director of the Central Alberta Economic Partnership (CAEP); and Calgary Stampede executive director Sarah Hayes.
The OCAT news release said during her time as chair, Staples “played a vital role in guiding the college towards its vision of becoming a leading integrated learning and applied research community focused on agriculture, horticulture, land, and environmental stewardship.”
Menzies has been a member of the board since 2020. He has extensive experience and expertise in the agri-food sector, international trade, and public service.
As a former member of Parliament, Menzies held significant positions, including parliamentary secretary to the minister of International Trade, minister of International Development, and minister of Finance.
“His appointment as minister of State for Finance and membership in the King’s Privy Council of Canada highlight his expertise and leadership,” the news release said.
Menzies has also represented Canada in international financial oversight bodies such as Asia Pacific Cooperation and as governor at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
After retiring from politics, Menzies served as the president and CEO of CropLife Canada, and a director on the CropLife International board, representing the plant science and biotech industry.
He remains actively involved in several organizations, including the Canadian Ag Hall of Fame and Alberta's Ag for Life.
"I am deeply honoured to be appointed as the chair of the Olds College board of governors," Menzies said in the news release.
"Agriculture is not just my profession but my passion. With Olds College's dedication to emerging technologies and smart agriculture, I am confident that together we can drive innovation and ensure excellence in the field."
"We are thrilled to welcome Ted Menzies as the new board chair," OCAT president Ben Cecil said in the news release.
"This appointment will further strengthen Olds College as an innovative hub for education, applied research, and agricultural innovation.
“Menzies's extensive background and dedication make him a valuable asset as the chair of the Olds College board of governors, emphasizing our commitment to excellence."
