Blue Ribbon Speaker

Dr. Frank Robinson

Emeritus Professor
University of Alberta

Dr. Frank Robinson, who started at the University of Alberta as a Professor of Poultry Production and Physiology in 1986, has served the U of A in several administrative positions including Vice-Provost and Dean of Students (2008 - 2014). He was inducted into the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and the Canadian Poultry Research Hall of Fame, was awarded a 3M National Teaching Fellowship, and is a Fellow of the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture and the Poultry Science Association. Through creative endeavors in engaging undergraduate students in experiential learning and promoting active industry integration, Frank has helped students find their careers in animal and poultry science, agricultural community development and research. He has given countless public talks about animal agriculture, and is recognized locally, nationally and internationally for expertise in small flock and large commercial poultry production.

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Connie Varnhagen

Professor Emerita
University of Alberta

Dr. Varnhagen is professor emerita and inaugural Academic Director of the Undergraduate Research Initiative at the University of Alberta. She is a strong proponent of all aspects of experiential learning. From large introductory lecture courses to small senior level courses, students apply concepts learned in lecture to real world settings, conduct research to support policy development, and critically reflect on their learning and experiences in service to the community. 

Originally trained as a developmental scientist with a BA(Hon) in Psychology from Kenyon College, a MA in Psychology from Notre Dame University, and a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Dr. Varnhagen has taught and conducted research in the Faculties of Science, Arts, and Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Alberta. With student research and experiential learning, Dr. Varnhagen developed a charity devoted to supporting the human-animal bond between vulnerable people and their companion animals and providing no cost veterinary services. Many of her students who completed veterinary school volunteer with the veterinary service and continue to engage in experiential learning and research to help improve animal welfare and the human condition. 

Dr. Varnhagen has been honored with numerous teaching awards, the 3M National Teaching Fellowship, recognizing educational leadership and teaching, an Honorary Degree in Sciences from the University of Alberta, recognizing contributions to education, research and community service, the King Charles III Medal for community development, and several awards from the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association for meritorious contributions to the field.