Rural Ontario Institute elected new chairman at AGM

Rob Hannam was elected to a one-year term as chairman of the board of the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI), following the organization’s annual general meeting on June 19.
 Hannam is the founder and president of Synthesis Agri-Food Network. He has been an active ROI board member since its inception in 2010 and was a former chairman of The Centre for Rural Leadership.
 “I am thrilled to be the incoming chair of the Rural Ontario Institute. It’s been a passion of mine for a long time,” said Hannam.
 Also elected to one-year terms on the executive committee are: Janet Horner, Shelburne, as vice-chairman; Stig Puschel, Sudbury, as secretary; Bill Bearss, Brampton, as treasurer; and Jim Whaley, Wasaga Beach, as past-chairman.  
 ROI welcomed new directors: Paul Karges, Susan Leuty, and recognized retiring members, Julie Cayley and Scott Merrifield. Returning members are: Craig Desjardins, Christine Dukelow, Rob Gordon, Cathy Redden, and Chris White.
 “ROI will continue to deliver programs that develop strong leaders who are a critical voice around opportunities and key issues facing rural Ontario,” Hannam said. “We have a solid track record and I am looking forward to working with the ROI team to ensure we have a positive impact on the agriculture sector and rural communities across Ontario.”