David Thompson
Class of 1970
Distinguished Alumnus Award 2016
The annual Blue & Gold awards banquet was held on campus November 3, 2016 honouring those alumni who have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their alma mater, their communities, Atlantic Canada and beyond.
The Distinguished Alumni Award is the Faculty of Agriculture’s most prestigious award, recognizing truly outstanding service and commitment to the Faculty of Agriculture, industry and the Alumni Association.
The 2016 recipient has done just that.
Alumni Association President Audrie-Jo McConkey, David Thompson and Dean David Gray
David Thompson’s active career in agriculture began immediately after graduation from NSAC in 1970.
After a stint with the PEI Department of Agriculture, David accepted a position in private industry, where he really took off. David began a career with the crop protection industry, working in sales, marketing and providing technical support to farmers and industry in the Maritime provinces, Quebec and Maine. David became well known and respected among potato and cereal growers across the country. A forward thinker in agriculture, David was always attentive to environmental issues and as a result, initiated many stewardship programs.
David has been a member of the Board of Directors of the World Potato Congress since 2000 and is currently serving as president and CEO. This organization works to promote the potato industry worldwide by hosting a World Potato Congress every three years and is recognized as a major player in the global potato industry.
In addition to this work, David is also president of the Board of Directors of the PEI Grain Elevators Corporation, a role he has held since 2009 and has helped promote the growth of the grain and soybean industry on PEI.
“A sincere thank-you to the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture Alumni Association for the honor of the Distinguished Alumnus Award,” said David. “The education I received at NSAC launched my 46-year career in Agriculture,” he added.
In retirement, David continues agricultural stewardship, working and volunteering with numerous organizations including the Potato Association of America, Canadian Association of Agricultural Retailers, Croplife Canada, Fertilizer Canada, Canadian Horticultural Council. Most recently, David has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame, representing Atlantic Canada. With his excellent broad knowledge and networking skills, he is a valued liaison between the agriculture industry and all levels of government
Over the past number of years David has been involved in his local community, serving as member of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation Board, the Rotary Club of Charlottetown, Kinsmen, K-40 and the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce.
Amidst his diverse agricultural experience, over the past 46 years, David has always remained interested in Dalhousie’s Faculty of Agriculture. He is an ongoing supporter of the Chuck Harrison Memorial Bursary, in memory of a fellow class member. He also facilitates two other awards on behalf of his organizations - the Atlantic Council of Crop Life Canada Bursaries and the Atlantic Fertilizer Council Bursary.
“During my years at NSAC, I enjoyed a full social life, travelled, played hockey and most importantly made lifelong friends. Many of these friends continue to be an important part of my career today. It is a privilege to join the prestigious list of previous honorees and I look forward to continued work with the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture Alumni Association. “
David Thompson has clearly distinguished himself in his area of expertise, bringing honour to the university. He is undoubtedly a positive role model for the Faculty of Agriculture and agriculture, making him a very deserving recipient of the Faculty of Agriculture’s Distinguished Alumnus Award for 2016.