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Campus Bulletin

May 16, 2007

Interim Research AVP Named

Prof. Rich Moccia of the Department of Animal and Poultry Science has agreed to serve as interim associate vice-president (research) agri-food and partnerships for one year starting May 14.

He will be focusing on the development of a new partnership agreement between the University and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). The current agreement expires in April 2008, and discussions are under way with the ministry to develop a new agreement that will again build on research, education and laboratory services activities.

“Rich is committed to working with all faculty on the new agreement, ” said Alan Wildeman, vice-president (research). “We need to ensure that it captures the University’s capacity to shape and meet the partnership’s objectives and provides strong services that contribute to the health and well-being of Ontario.”

Moccia has 20 years of experience within the OMAFRA agreement. A researcher and extension specialist in the agri-food sector, he played a leading role in developing the Alma Aquaculture Research Station and has served as director of the animal research program.

In the coming months, Moccia will be engaging in dialogue with the campus community about how the desired outcomes of the agreement can best be met and how the programs can be managed most effectively.
"The OMAFRA agreement is a vital pillar within the University,” Moccia says. “We have an opportunity to set a course of action for the coming years that will show what Guelph really can do for agriculture, food and public health across rural and urban Ontario.”

The associate vice-president position became vacant when Rob McLaughlin agreed to take on a bigger role in enhancing the profile of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.