NSAC Alumni Honoured for Outstanding Achievements

NSAC alumni have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their alma mater, their communities, the Province of Nova Scotia and beyond.

The Blue and Gold Awards program demonstrates NSAC’s pride in the accomplishments of its deserving alumni. Truro residents, Oliver Browning (Class of ’98) and Robert Murray (Class of ’52), as well as Charlie Embree (Class of ’61), of Port Williams, were awarded at the awards gala on November 13th.

“These three individuals have achieved great distinction and success in their professional endeavours, and have made extraordinary contributions through their work and volunteer efforts. They are true ambassadors for NSAC,” says Dr. Richard Donald, Vice President, Research, Extension & Outreach.

Young Alumni Achievement Award recipient, Oliver Browning, has excelled early in his engineering career and has tackled some ambitious projects. Despite the demanding career path he has set for himself, he still takes time to play an active role in the community.

Alumni Volunteer of the Year winner, Robert Murray, has spent his working career and retirement making a difference to those around him. To name a few activities, Robert spends his days as a member of the St. James Presbyterian Church where he is involved with the Men’s Club, Board of Managers and is a Church Elder. He also volunteers his time as a member with the Postal History Society of Nova Scotia, Postal History Society of Canada, Bible Fellowship Group, Colchester Historical Society and the Truro Philatelic Society where he is secretary, bulletin editor and past president.

Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Charlie Embree. Charlie has made a great impact on the agriculture industry, both locally and abroad. His mark, without a doubt, will be long lasting. Working in a number of capacities throughout his career, Charlie served agriculture in Nova Scotia for over 40 years. Throughout his career, Charlie has always maintained his ties to NSAC. Serving as an adjunct professor since 1988, he has given many lectures on propagation and apple production technologies. On top of this, Charlie has mentored many NSAC students and a number of grad students.

These three alumni are great examples of people making a difference in their communities.

Watch for more detailed information on these award winners and the awards banquet in the winter edition of Agricola News!

PHOTO: NSAC's "future alumni", the Students' Union Executive, are shown with the 2009 Blue & Gold Award recipients. L-R: Daniel Muir, VP Communications; Donald Buchanan, VP Administration; Charlie Embree; Nathan Murray, VP Finance; Robert Murray; Colette Wyllie, President; Oliver Browning.