Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba (AITC-M) has announced that Sue Clayton is the organization's new associate executive director.

She will support current Executive Director Johanne Ross, who has taken on a half-time role as chair for Agriculture in the Classroom-Canada.

"Sue has a proven track record in the agriculture awareness arena in her successful work developed and delivered through the agriculture ambassador program at the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the University of Manitoba. She joined the AITC-M board of directors in 2013 and has dedicated significant time to the agriculture education effort through partnering on programming between the faculty and AITC-M and volunteering at events. Sue is a passionate, dedicated champion for agriculture, who loves to partner, collaborate and get things done. AITC-M couldn’t be more pleased to welcome her to the team!" stated Brian Kenyon, AITC-M president.

Clayton has managed the Community Liaison role at the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the U of M as well as acted a school board trustee for 16 years.

"Having an agriculture degree in combination with my industry experience and strong interpersonal skills has enabled me to be extremely successful in my current position building long term relationships with industry stakeholders," said Clayton. "My knowledge of the initiatives in place to increase the agriculture education in classrooms has been expanded over the past few years while working at the University of Manitoba in partnership with AITC-M and I have been fortunate enough to serve on the AITC-M Board since April, 2013. I am extremely passionate about the work that AITC-M carries out and am thrilled to be able to contribute in a new way."

Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba is a non-profit organization supported by individuals and the agriculture industry. The organization runs several programs throughout the year including the Amazing Agriculture Adventure, The Made in Manitoba Breakfast Program, gardening projects, farm tours and other special events.

AITC-M also develops and distributes teacher resources to help deliver agriculture information for use within the school curriculum.