Apr. 12/22 News Print Page

April 12, 2022 - New Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) board members will help support rural Alberta’s economic recovery and growth.

Three newly appointed members and one reappointed member will work with the existing board of directors to continue oversight of AFSC. The board helps ensure the agency’s programs and services are delivered effectively and meet the unique needs of agricultural producers and rural businesses.

These new appointments begin April 12 and reflect the government’s commitment to support Alberta’s economic recovery and AFSC’s commitment to be responsive to farmers and provide programs that support agribusinesses.

“AFSC’s diverse board of directors ensures the organization continues to meet the needs of the province’s crop and livestock producers and agribusinesses. After experiencing drought conditions last summer, we are reminded how important proactive business risk management is for the agriculture and agri-food industries. Andre, Michael and Ross will make great additions to the team.”

-Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development

AFSC Board of Directors

New board members are:

  • Andre Harpe – crop producer, Valhalla Centre
  • Michael Howden – accountant, Foothills
  • Ross Bricker – cattle producer, Didsbury

The new board members represent a broad and diverse cross-section of the industry to ensure the best service for Alberta producers and agribusinesses. These members’ terms will expire on April 12, 2025.

Continuing board members are:

  • Kelly Smith-Fraser, board chair – cattle producer, Pine Lake
  • Rodney Bradshaw – primary producer, Red Deer County
  • Chioma Ufodike – forensic accountant, Calgary
  • Renata Colic – finance and investor relations, Calgary

Colic has been reappointed for a two-year term, which will expire on April 12, 2024.

“We are excited to welcome our new board members and appreciate the diversity of skills they bring to complement the existing strengths of our board.”

-Kelly Smith-Fraser, board chair, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation

“We are thankful for the five years of service that retiring member Jerry Bouma provided to AFSC, and the positive impact he had on the organization.”

-Darryl Kay, CEO, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation

 

Quick facts

  • AFSC is guided by a board of directors whose knowledge and experience is key to its success.
  • As a provincial Crown corporation, AFSC provides loans, crop insurance and farm income disaster assistance programs to farmers, agribusinesses and other small businesses.
  • AFSC continues to focus on making its services more efficient for and responsive to Albertans.

To learn more about the AFSC Board of Directors, please see our Board of Directors webpage.