What's New

New Associate Dean (Academic) Named for OAC

September 18, 2009

Dr. Jonathan Schmidt, a faculty member in OAC’s School of Environmental Sciences, has been appointed to the position of associate dean (academic) for the college, effective immediately. The appointment is for a five-year term.

The announcement was made by OAC dean Rob Gordon, who chaired the search committee.

“I’m extremely excited to welcome Jonathan to OAC’s senior administrative team,” said Gordon. “His dedication to teaching, extensive management experience and commitment to academic excellence will provide outstanding leadership for the delivery and ongoing development of OAC diploma and undergraduate education programs that will effectively prepare tomorrow's leaders in the areas of agriculture, food, the environment and rural communities.”

The associate dean (academic) is responsible for all aspects related to diploma and undergraduate programs including student advising, program development and budget oversight on OAC’s four campuses at Guelph, Alfred, Kemptville and Ridgetown. The associate dean coordinates OAC’s academic governance process and leads the development of innovative delivery mechanisms for both traditional and non-traditional educational programs.

Dr. Schmidt joined the faculty of the department of Environmental Biology in 1988. He spent several years leading research and development in the biotechnology industry before returning to the university in 2004, where he has focused primarily on undergraduate education, including course and curriculum development. Schmidt holds BSc and PhD degrees from the University of Toronto, and completed a NATO post-doctoral fellowship at Wageningen University, the Netherlands. His past experience includes research on issues related to integrated pest management, forest ecology, drug discovery and human health.

“OAC is strategically positioned to educate a new generation of students who will be called upon to tackle the sustainability of agroecosystems, the rejuvenation of urban and rural environments, the maintenance of food safety and the prudent use of bioresources,” said Schmidt. “I am honoured to have this opportunity to work with OAC’s outstanding faculty and staff as we strive to invigorate our undergraduate programs, strengthening the linkages with research and service.”

For more information, contact OAC Communications: Brenda Cassidy at 519-824-4120, ext 56832 or bcassidy@uoguelph.ca