Agriculture's 2025 Blue and Gold awards honour three outstanding alumni

Each year, the Faculty of Agriculture proudly celebrates alumni who exemplify leadership, dedication, and community impact through the Blue and Gold Awards.

These prestigious honours recognize graduates who have made significant contributions to agriculture, their communities, Atlantic Canada, and beyond. The 2025 recipients are no exception — each has made an enduring mark in their field and continues to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“These three remarkable alumni are shining examples of what it means to lead from the heart,” said Dr. Heather Bruce, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture. “From grassroots community involvement to global business impact and groundbreaking leadership in agriculture, their stories reflect the very best of our alumni."

Carol Versteeg’s life is a testament to the quiet strength of volunteerism. From her early days on a dairy farm in North Grand Pre, NS, to her tireless work with 4-H and countless community initiatives, Carol has consistently led by example.

For more than 25 years, Carol was a cornerstone of the Hardwoodlands 4-H Club, taking on leadership roles and continuing to support youth even after officially stepping back. Her efforts have extended into education, where she has volunteered as head librarian at Maple Ridge Elementary for over a decade, fostering a love of books and inclusion among students.

Carol's leadership has also shaped agricultural policy and advocacy in Nova Scotia. She held positions on the Farm Loan Board, the Natural Products Marketing Council, and co-founded the Soil and Crop Improvement Association. Through it all, she balanced family, community, and industry involvement with grace and determination.