Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program, also known as AALP. It is a program that has been instrumental in shaping the future of Ontario’s agriculture and food sectors for 40 years.

Established in 1984, AALP was founded to meet the pressing need for leadership development in Ontario’s agricultural community.

Modelled after the Kellogg Foundation programs in the United States, AALP emerged from a collaborative effort involving key figures like Dr. Clay Switzer from the Ontario Agricultural College; Ken Knox from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food; future federal Minister of Agriculture Lyle Vanclief; and Peter Hannam, an agricultural visionary, among others.

The program, now administered by the Rural Ontario Institute — the program I left when I came to this august chamber — has grown into a cornerstone of agricultural leadership in Ontario. It was created to unleash the leadership potential of men and women in the industry, broaden their horizons, expand their networks and empower these individuals, all whom play vital roles in our agriculture and rural communities.

Over the years, AALP has equipped its participants with knowledge, skills, confidence and networks needed to tackle the many challenges facing the agricultural sector.

As we celebrate AALP’s fortieth anniversary, it is important to acknowledge the legacy of those who have shaped this program, including Ann Gordon — a distinguished graduate and the former executive director of AALP — who is here with us in the chamber today. Her contributions, along with those of many others, have been pivotal in maintaining the program’s excellence and relevance over the years.

AALP’s fortieth anniversary milestone was recently celebrated at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show in Woodstock — a fitting venue to honour a program that has contributed so significantly to the agricultural landscape of our province and country.

Honourable senators, AALP’s impact on Ontario’s agricultural sector is immeasurable. It continues to cultivate leaders who are prepared to navigate the complexities and issues of modern agriculture and within our rural communities, and it continues to advocate for the future of this essential industry.

I ask that you join me in congratulating the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program on 40 years of outstanding service to Ontario’s agricultural community.

Thank you. Meegwetch.