The Nova Scotia Agricultural College, in cooperation with provincial governments in the Atlantic region, has formed an independent Advisory Board to provide guidance and future direction to the 98-year-old institution.

"It is part of our strategic plan to be more closely connected to the world around us," said NSAC Principal Dr. Garth Coffin. "We look to this Advisory Board to connect us to the breadth of the Atlantic region as well as providing guidance on long term issues of governance and strategic direction"

In creating the Advisory Board, the NSAC sought the cooperation of provincial governments in the Atlantic region to name leading members of the agriculture and food industry to the Board. Members will serve staggered three-year terms, renewable one time only.

"I know these people will bring tremendous experience to the Advisory Board. I appreciate their commitment to serve as members." said Ernest Fage, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.

The NSAC Advisory Board, will meet at least twice a year and consist of 12 members appointed by the governments of the Atlantic provinces, by the NSAC and by the Board itself. The Board will be involved in long-term planning, which will include development initiatives, academic offerings and facilities, research directions and external communications as well as governance.

The Board will be chaired by John Bragg, CEO of Oxford Frozen Foods. Other members include: Mr. Barron Blois, farmer, Kennetcook NS; Mrs. Lynn MacLean, High School Principal, Pictou; Mr. Elmer MacDonald, farmer, Augustine Cove, PEI; Mr. Joseph Brennan, farmer and President NB Agricultural Producers Association, Johnville, NB; Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, NF; Ms. Heather Topley, Graduate Student, NSAC Truro; Dr. Jeff Hoyle, Chair, Faculty Council, NSAC Truro and Dr. Bernie MacDonald, Vice-Principal, NSAC Truro. The President of NSAC will act as an Ex-Officio member while Theresa Blois will be Secretary to the Board. Three other appointments will be made by the Board.

The inaugural meeting of the Board was held December 19th on the NSAC campus.