Two members of Lakeland College’s applied research team, Dr. Brenda Ralston and Robyne Davidson, are recipients of the 2026 Women in Ag Awards, presented by Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC).

The Women in Ag Awards recognize outstanding women across Alberta who are advancing innovation, leadership and positive change in agriculture and agribusiness. Dr. Ralston received The Professional award and Davidson received The Innovator.

“We are incredibly proud of the work our applied research team does every day. Brenda and Robyne exemplify Lakeland’s values, particularly in innovation and community,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland’s president and CEO. “We are so proud of them for being such passionate advocates for the agricultural industry and such amazing ambassadors for Lakeland’s applied research team.”

The Women in Ag Awards were presented on March 8, celebrating the passion, resilience and innovation that women bring to agriculture, often behind the scenes and in the fields.

“Lakeland’s applied research team focuses on delivering practical, producer-driven solutions that address emerging challenges and opportunities across the agricultural sector,” says Dr. Francois Paradis, the dean of applied research at Lakeland. “Brenda and Robyne embody the strength, curiosity and forward-thinking that defines our approach to applied research and we are incredibly proud to have them as members of our team.”

Ralston, an RDAR scientist with Lakeland, brings a unique combination of handson livestock experience and scientific expertise to her research in ruminant health and environmental sustainability. Her work explores vitamin and mineral deficiencies in beef herds, animal welfare and the environmental impacts of materials such as biodegradable Nature’s Net Wrap. Her leadership provides producers with informed, practical and sustainable decisionmaking tools.

Davidson’s research focuses on crop development and disease management, with strong emphasis on pulse crops. Her research on lupins as an alternative high protein pulse crop offers promising opportunities for diversification and longterm agronomic resilience. Her work continues to create innovative pathways for producers seeking sustainable crop solutions. 

Dr. Susan Markus, an RDAR scientist with Lakeland’s research team, was also a nominee for the award. She specializes in ruminant production, nutrition and reproduction, with a research portfolio spanning genomics, efficiency and precision heifer selection. Her work on automating heifer selection strategies aims to give producers data-driven tools to strengthen herd performance. 

Lakeland alumna, Jordyn Prior, was also named The Emergent at the Women in Ag Awards. She graduated from the university transfer program in 2011. 

 

Photos: (top to bottom) 1. Dr. Brenda Ralston presenting at the Lakeland College farm. 2. Dr. Brenda Ralston, recipient of The Professional award. 3. Robyne Davidson teaching in the field. 4. Robyne Davidson, recipient of The Innovator award.