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Agriculture in the Classroom welcomes new executive director

Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) has appointed Denise Schmidt as its new executive director. With deep roots in agriculture and a career dedicated to collaboration and community-building, Schmidt steps into this role ready to strengthen the foundation of agricultural literacy across Canada.

Raised with a deep appreciation for Canadian agriculture, Schmidt brings decades of experience connecting industry, producers, associations and government. Most recently, she served as senior director of North American Canola Business and Industry Affairs at Cibus, Her background in agronomy, marketing, and business development positions her well to guide AITC-C’s next chapter of support—anchored in the values of education, collaboration, and community.

“Canada’s future food and ag sector depends on our ability to engage our youth—not just as consumers, but as informed citizens, innovators, and future leaders,” said Schmidt. “It’s an honour to lead an organization that supports both our educators and larger industry by helping students see where their food comes from and the people who make it possible. Together with our partners, we’ll continue to build meaningful connections between classrooms, the farm gate and the larger value chain.”

Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is a charitable organization dedicated to helping students across Canada understand and appreciate the role agriculture plays in their lives. With a strong focus on educational tools that reflect the realities of today’s producers and communities, AITC-C is committed to ensuring every student feels connected to our food systems—and to the people who grow and raise our food.

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California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.