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The Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture Graduation Banquet is an event as unique to the campus as it is to its graduates.  

The Class of 2019 Graduation Banquet, organized by Cynthia Campbell and Rachael Bekkers, honours the contributions of graduating students to student life and was held last Thursday, May 9th.   

The banquet, a highlight of graduation celebrations, provides an opportunity for members of the graduating class to be recognized with Distinguished Graduate Awards. 

Distinguished Graduate Awards were presented to Jack Lynds, Truro and Carolyn Marshall, Liverpool NS.

Distinguished Graduate Awards are designed to express the Faculty’s acknowledgment and appreciation to graduating students, who have, through their time, energy, talent and leadership enriched the campus community during their studies without neglecting academic pursuits. Recipients are recognized for contributions made through their involvement over time in multiple activities, including, but not limited to, student government, campus activities, community service, sport and recreation, internationalization, or other campus programs.

The Noel Enman Memorial Award, instituted in 1984, is presented annually to a technician or technology graduate whose personality and fellowship has contributed to student life and activities thereby gaining the respect of students and faculty. This award was presented to Olivia Bickford of Quispamsis, New Brunswick.

“We pride ourselves in offering a rich campus experience for our students and I am always proud to celebrate students who not only engaged in our campus, but who also enriched the experience for everyone through their energy and leadership," said Assistant Dean Students, Keltie Jones.

Every year, the Dalhousie Agricultural Students’ Association, along with the graduating class, selects a faculty or staff member to receive the Student Appreciation Award. The 2019 recipient was Dr. Randall Olson.

Dr. Olson is held in high regard by all students and makes a big difference in the fiirst year and on-going years of study on campus explained Grad Co- Chairs Cynthia Campbell and Rachael Bekkers.

Dr. O is well known for his story-telling and lecturing ability among students. This created a fun, positive learning environment and entertaining lectures for all his students. His fascination for all living things and the processes that provide them function is well displayed. Some key tidbits of information that can be recalled from his classes are the difference between a sporophyte and a gametophyte or simply that trees are living beings.

Always approachable and friendly, Dr. O always says ‘Hi’ in the hallways of Cox Institute as well as the pathways throughout campus and is always willing to help students in any way he can, whether it be extra sessions or a discussion after class.  

Other awards presented include:

Dr. Gerry Friars Undergraduate Research Award- Kiran Fong, Clagary, Alberta

Elanco Canada Limited Award – Danielle Hessels, York, Prince Edward Island

Klaus de Geus Memorial Award for Plant Science – Brandon Petitpas, Riverview New Brunswick

Canadian Agricultural Economics Society Books Prize – Wenshan Liao, Fuzhou, China

Ketchum Manufacturing Company Limited Prize – Brooke McNeil, Hantsport, NS

Canadian Society of Animal Science Undergraduate Student Award for Academic Excellence – Brooke McNeil, Hantsport, NB

Congratulations to all.