Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) has announced Denise Schmidt as its new Executive Director. Schmidt, who has a long-standing connection to the agricultural sector, is set to enhance agricultural literacy across the nation.
Schmidt’s extensive experience spans industry, producers, associations, and government. Previously, she was the Senior Director of North American Canola Business and Industry Affairs at Cibus, where she fostered partnerships and policies to benefit the agricultural sector. Her expertise in agronomy, marketing, and business development will be instrumental in guiding AITC-C’s future initiatives focused on education, collaboration, and community.
Schmidt emphasized the importance of engaging youth in the agricultural sector, stating, “our future in good and agriculture relies on educating young people not just as consumers, but as informed citizens and future leaders. I am honoured to lead an organization that bridges the gap between classrooms and the agricultural industry.”
In her new role, Schmidt will spearhead AITC-C’s strategic vision to expand its educational impact and build strong relationships within Canada’s agricultural and educational communities. She will collaborate with provincial partners to provide inclusive, high-quality resources that represent the diverse voices of the food system. Her commitment to advancing agricultural literacy aims to ensure Canadian youth understand the origins of their food and the people behind its production.
Schmidt can be reached at director@aitc-canada.ca.
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About the Author
Kara grew up on a grain farm near Bow Island, Alberta. After attending SAIT and the University of Calgary — where she obtained a degree in communication and media studies, and a diploma in broadcast news — Kara began her professional career working in agricultural communications and agricultural journalism. Kara now farms alongside her family and her husband on the family farm, where they raise a mix of livestock, crops, and barn cats.