Rubbing elbows with those who call the shots at the University of Florida was today’s highlight for CanACT members. They met with the communications team, and the deans for the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS).

It was clear that the University’s communications engine is strongly driven by the IFAS communications department. The unit focuses on spreading information on agricultural teaching, research and extension work via print, broadcast and the Internet. CanACT members toured the administrative, advertorial, editorial, design, lay-out, printing and broadcast stations on-site, and were struck by the intricacy of the operation.

Lunch was shared with Dr. Wayne Smith, acting dean, and Dr. Jane Luzar, associate dean, for the agricultural college in IFAS. Eager CanACT members engaged in thoughtful discussion about university programming, agricultural production and communications, and issues facing the industry in Canada and the United States. Both deans said the Guelph-Florida exchange was a welcome opportunity for participants to learn from each other and build strong relationships.

The day was completed with a tour of the University’s aquaculture research station. CanACT members looked at the variety of fresh, salt water and tropical fish being grown in the state. They were also treated to a wide-range of publications on Florida aquaculture.