The 2016 OAC Alumni Distinguished Extension award was presented to Professor Al Lauzon on September 14, 2016 at the OAC Welcome Back BBQ event.  This award recognizes effective extension efforts used successfully in extension outside the University classroom.

Al Lauzon is a Professor in Capacity Development and Extension and the PhD in Rural Studies program and is currently serving as Acting Director of the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development.

Rocio Morales Rayas, OAC Alumni Association; Al Lauzon; and Rene Van Acker, OAC Dean.

Al is currently involved in a number of research projects including the roles colleges play in supporting rural small and medium enterprise innovation, the role of afterschool programs and their impact upon rural youth and their communities, and the development of rural social enterprises. He has significant community service experience and is currently a member of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation, a member of the editorial board for the Journal of Rural and Community Development, and serves as a reviewer for a number of diverse journals related to education, community development and social change.