Welcome to the Department of Food, Agricultural, and Resource Economics at Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph. As Chair, I am delighted to welcome all our future, new, and returning students. Your presence and contributions are integral to our department’s success. Working alongside you, our dedicated and talented faculty, students, and staff, has been a joy.
To our undergraduate students, I hope you realize how powerful and robust economics and business principles are in tackling issues in the food, agriculture, and resources industries. Whether you are interested in agricultural economics and agribusiness, food economics, resource economics, environmental economics, or the economics of agricultural development, FARE has much to offer. Our faculty research covers many topics, and our graduate students write about everything from environmental concerns to climate change, making a significant impact on a global scale. If you are passionate about policies affecting food, agriculture, resources, and the environment or addressing global poverty and rural issues, then FARE is for you. If you are curious about the causes of food insecurity, hunger or agricultural trade, FARE is the right place. Understanding the global economy is key to improving life, and we are passionate about providing you with opportunities to engage in real economic research that can make a difference.
Graduate students, I hope you find joy in economic research in food, agriculture and resource/environment. The thrill of discovering new ideas and facts is one of the greatest pleasures. Remember, we learn best by interacting with others. FARE is lucky to have a diverse group of graduate students from many countries and cultures, which we see as an asset. With a thriving agri-food sector offering abundant job opportunities, this is an exciting time to study Food, Agriculture, and Resource Economics. Whether you are pursuing a thesis-based Master of Science, a Ph.D., or a course-based Master’s in FARE, you will find a welcoming and supportive community here dedicated to making a difference in the world.
FARE is more than just an academic institution; it is a community. We are proud of our exceptional teachers and the strong, collegial relationships we build with our students. Our faculty are deeply engaged with students, offering significant one-on-one mentorship and opportunities for collaboration, often leading to co-authored publications. In our department, graduate students are treated as colleagues, and we foster a supportive environment that encourages academic and personal growth. We want you to feel at home here, to spend time in our building, and join in on conversations in our seminar rooms. Share your research ideas with us, especially when they are just beginning to take shape. Build good connections with your classmates and support the students you teach. Teaching FARE undergrads is an honour, and I am always available if you need anything. Talk to us if you ever face challenges—we are here to help. Our staff is also here to support you, and we are committed to making your experience at FARE as smooth and rewarding as possible.
FARE is not just about thinking big; it is about doing so with a deep sense of compassion and commitment to Improving Life. Our research addresses various food, agriculture, and resource use issues that directly impact our everyday lives. From evaluating farmland, innovation and agricultural practices to understanding what drives consumer choices in grocery stores, our work is at the intersection of local and global challenges. We have contributed significantly to worldwide food, agricultural, and environmental policies and business strategies. Deep in our DNA is the belief that economic and business principles can solve many of humanity’s pressing problems - food insecurity, water insecurity, energy insecurity, climate change, environmental degradation, hunger, poverty and inequality. I share that belief and hope you do, too. We invite you to explore our programs and join us in addressing some of the most critical issues facing today’s world.
Getu Hailu
Professor & Chair, Department of Food, Agricultural, and Resource Economics