Alberta Barley leads drive for diversity
While variety is the spice of life, diversity is not just the flavor of the month. In fact, it is a critical component of many boards and organizations today, and that has never been more evident than in the current governance of Alberta Barley.
Tara Sawyer
That diversity starts at the top, where Sawyer serves as board chair. It was a natural fit, as she and her husband, who run a grain operation outside Acme, Alberta, are deeply involved in agricultural policy issues and helping to “tell the producer’s story”.
“There is room for farmers from all demographics and regions to have a seat at the decision-making table that leads our industry,” said Sawyer. “Diversity and inclusion are important in any organization, and I think Alberta Barley has taken a leading role with their staff and board to promote that.”
In addition to making a meaningful contribution to the board, Sawyer hopes that her participation serves to inspire other women to follow suit.
“It’s critical to have a range of perspectives at the table. A lot of people are hesitant as they feel they’re not qualified, but if you’re a farmer, we need your voice.”
Melissa Damiani
As an agronomist and grain farmer near Bluffton, Alberta, Damiani brings much to her role as an Alberta Barley delegate.
“I am a nerd about learning and passionate about the ag industry,” said Damiani. “I always attended events when I could and got to know many people at the commission, so when I was encouraged to get involved it was a no- brainer.”
Damiani feels strongly about the need for an open mind and a willingness to incorporate different viewpoints in governance.
“Our members are all at various stages of their lives and bring diverse experiences. No two fields or farms are the same, so the more input you have, the better. I think there is no greater learning experience you can have than with the commission; it’s an excellent way to stay on top of all things impacting your business.”
Jessica Dugdale
Dugdale also brings a business management background to her delegate role, as well as on farm experience that inspired her to serve the industry with Alberta Barley.
“After university, I returned to my family’s grain farm, DLC Ventures, east of the City of Calgary,” said Dugdale. “Working closely with my dad, I learned the business of farming, primarily growing grains, pulses and oilseeds, hay, and raising black angus cattle.”
As the farm continued to expand, so did its complexity and structure, taking Dugdale and the business in new directions. Her shift to a management position gave her renewed confidence and a real desire to make a difference outside her own farm gate.
“Becoming a delegate has been a stepping stone to gaining new knowledge and perspectives beyond my own farm, and has allowed me to better understand the grain farming industry. We know that diversity of thought and viewpoint are what builds resilience in any organization, leading to growth, greater innovation and stronger teams that can find solutions to meaningful problems.”
Connie Matson
While a relative newcomer to the board of directors, Matson has served as a delegate since 2017, and brings a lifelong passion for agriculture to the new role.
“I grew up on a small, diversified farm south of Sylvan Lake and from the time I could talk, I would bombard my grandparents, uncles and father with a relentless stream of questions regarding livestock, crops and processes,” said Matson. “I take a lot of pride in farming in Central Alberta and I find it extremely rewarding.”
She also runs an independent agronomy business, but her work with the board is still a top priority.
“I have always believed in representing the farmer honestly and fairly, with the promise and commitment to find real solutions to the many things that challenge us. With help and support from the provincial and federal governments, our amazing Alberta Barley staff, along with delegates and directors from every region, we work as a team to generate answers for producers, and I find that immensely satisfying.”
Daleen Shaver
Since her early days on the family farm west of Wetaskiwin, helping has always been second nature for Shaver.
“Even when I went to college and started a full-time job, I would always come back to help at the farm,” said Shaver. “When I was on maternity leave with my daughter, I assisted quite a bit with the harvest and started asking questions about cost and revenues. Soon after, I found some land to rent and it slowly built up from there.”
Daleen and her husband Trent moved to the family farm permanently in 2021. That fall, board member Connie Matson encouraged her to get involved as a delegate, and she jumped at the chance.
“I asked questions, looked into it and thought it would be a good opportunity to get involved and learn from a great group of people from various areas of Alberta and the industry.”
In addition to enjoying her role, she appreciates the focus on diversity employed by Alberta Barley.
“I think diversity is important because many people have different ways of thinking and performing tasks. It’s also good to have information and experience from others, as it can help improve our own practices.”