As we look back on 2023, the North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) has achieved significant milestones in fostering collaboration within agricultural advisory services across North America. The dedication and enthusiasm of our community has played a pivotal role in propelling us forward. As we approach the new year, let’s continue to harness the momentum generated by these achievements and set the stage for continued success in 2024.
Key Highlights from 2023
1. 2023-2025 Workplan
At the inaugural in-person NAAAN Steering Committee Meeting in May 2023, the comprehensive 2023-2025 Workplan was approved. This strategic roadmap outlines our key priorities and initiatives that will guide our efforts in the years to come. Following the GFRAS Annual Meeting, our Secretariat team is collaborating with partners to launch NAAAN Country Hubs through NAAAN CONNECT, an online engagement platform focused on building out the thematic areas and programmatic activities for the NAAAN across Canada, Mexico and the U.S.
2. Hosted a Successful GFRAS Annual Meeting
In October, NAAAN hosted the 14th Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado, USA. With participants from over 40 countries, the event provided a diverse and vibrant network for knowledge exchange. The focus on “Building the Next Generation of Leaders in Agriculture” was evident in the 26 sessions that facilitated rich discussions and collaboration of more than 180 participants.
Watch the GFRAS Annual Meeting Overview Video
The meeting followed the GFRAS model and incorporated a day of field visits, featuring six farms ranging from multi-generational to first generation farming along the Colorado Front Range. The conference included a visit to CSU Spur, the K-12 public facing campus focused on addressing global challenges around food, water and health, providing additional inspiration to next generation issues for global and regional food security. Thank you to our sponsors for your commitment to advancing rural advisory services in North America and building the next generation of leaders in agriculture!
3. Welcomed New Steering Committee Members and Senior Staff
This year, NAAAN expanded its leadership team by welcoming 11 new members to the steering committee and senior staff. Notably, Jennifer Wright, Executive Director at the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC), joined as the newest Steering Committee member for Canada. Jennifer brings a wealth of experience from her family’s farm in southwestern Ontario and over two decades of expertise in human resources.
Learn More About Our Leadership
4. New Communication Platforms
In 2023, we enhanced our communication efforts, distributing three newsletters and experiencing a 24% growth in subscribers, reaching 1,012. We invite our current subscribers to share the newsletter sign-up link, to help expand our community.
Additionally, a comprehensive NAAAN Overview video was produced for the GFRAS Annual Meeting opening, offering insights into our history, mission, and the significance of this partnership.
Watch the NAAAN Overview Video
Looking ahead to 2024, we are excited about the upcoming launch of “NAAAN CONNECT,” our new online engagement and communication platform for the NAAAN Country Hubs.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow, collaborate, and make strides in advancing agricultural advisory services in North America.