New Leaders Elected to FFCO Board 2025

New FFCO Board Announced for 2025

Farm & Food Care Ontario (FFCO) has announced its newly elected Board of Directors and executive team for 2025-2026. At the top of the leadership team is Janelle Cardiff, nominated by Egg Farmers of Ontario, who will now serve as the new Chair. She succeeds Crispin Colvin of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, who transitions into the role of Past Chair. 

Other members joining the executive team include Nadine Schwandt, nominated by New-Life Mills, as Vice Chair; Nicki Scott, nominated by Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association and Ontario Potato Board, as Second Vice Chair; and John Taylor, nominated by Ontario Mutual Insurance Association, as Treasurer. 

This announcement was made following the organization’s Annual General Meeting and Speakers’ Conference, held on April 10. 

In addition to the executive team, the full FFCO Board of Directors includes: 

• Joe Hickson, Ontario Seed Growers’ Association 

• Steve Lake, Grain Farmers of Ontario 

• Quintin McEwen, Ontario Sheep Farmers 

• Jennifer Mitchell, Ontario Hatcheries Association 

• Pete Overdevest, Dairy Farmers of Ontario (Ex-Officio) 

• Joost van der Heiden, Beef Farmers of Ontario 

• Augusta Van Muyen, Grape Growers of Ontario (Newly elected) 

• Andrea Veldhuizen, Chicken Farmers of Ontario 

Retiring director Kelly Gubesch, who served since 2023, was recognized for her dedicated service representing Wallenstein Feed & Supply Ltd. and Maple Leaf Foods. 

“I’m honored to step into the role of Chair of Farm & Food Care Ontario. Now in my ninth year on the board—including time as Vice Chair—I’m excited to take on this new leadership role,” said Chair Janelle Cardiff “FFCO plays a vital part in Ontario’s agriculture industry, and I look forward to continuing our collaborative work with farmers, agri-food professionals, businesses, and government partners.” 

New Chair Janelle Cardiff expressed her enthusiasm, noting her nine years on the board and her commitment to FFCO’s role in supporting Ontario’s agriculture industry. Vice Chair Nadine Schwandt also shared her excitement, highlighting key FFCO initiatives such as Breakfast on the Farm and FarmFood360. 

Read FFCO’s annual report here. 

Photo Credit: farm-and-food-care