Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi) CEO JoAnne Buth has been recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Winnipeg.

She received the award June 11, 2015 at the university’s spring convocation ceremony.

"When I look at the list of other recipients I'm humbled essentially that I was chosen for the award," said Buth. "It is a special honour because I have been chosen by my peers-other alumni who also recognize the importance of The U of W."

She graduated from the university in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.

"The University of Winnipeg provided a very progressive and innovative environment during my degree," explained Buth. "One of the most important things I learned was critical thinking, and I was able to use that and the information and other skills I developed to try to make a difference in the places that I worked."

Agriculture was the main focus for Buth during her professional career having worked as a research and development manager, weed management specialist, and managed programs related to crop, soil and water management.

She has also served as vice-president and president of the Canola Council of Canada and was appointed to the Canadian Senate in 2012 representing Manitoba.

Buth was hired as CEO of Cigi in 2014.

"For me, my passion is trying to make a difference for farmers, so they can produce safe and nutritious food for Canadians and customers around the world...Whether that is on-farm production, policy, or international marketing, it is all about the farmers and their profitability."