Honouring Alberta’s Agricultural Roots

This fall, 2025, nine exceptional Albertans will receive the province’s highest honour, the Alberta Order of Excellence. This distinction not only celebrates personal achievement, but also highlights the enduring values that define Alberta, especially our strong agricultural heritage. Several of this year’s recipients have made significant contributions to agriculture, ranching and rural community life. 

Agricultural and Rural Champions 

Nichole Neubauer stands out as a true ambassador for Alberta farming. As founder of the Irvine Agricultural Discovery Centre, Nichole has hosted more than 20,000 students on her family’s working farm, connecting youth with hands-on ag education and farm safety. Her passion for building rural awareness and supporting local food systems has shaped the next generation’s understanding of agriculture’s importance. 

John Scott, a respected Longview rancher, has played a unique role in both the agricultural world and Alberta’s cultural scene. Managing a renowned ranch, he’s helped preserve Alberta’s rangeland traditions and also opened his property to filmmakers, bringing authentic Alberta landscapes to major Hollywood productions. His stewardship ensures that rural stories and working landscapes remain part of Alberta’s identity. 

Lyn Radford, based in Red Deer, is well known for her tireless volunteer work, including helping make the 2019 Canada Games a success. Her deep connections to rural events and support for Central Alberta’s communities remind us how local leadership strengthens both agriculture and regional spirit. 

Brian and Stephanie Felesky of Calgary are philanthropists and advocates who have long supported Alberta’s agricultural, food security and rural development initiatives, helping connect city and country interests for the betterment of all. 

Full List of 2025 Alberta Order of Excellence Recipients 

• Sine Chadi (Edmonton) 

• John Day (Edmonton) 

• Brian and Stephanie Felesky (Calgary) 

• Geoff Cumming (Calgary) 

• Nichole Neubauer (Irvine) 

• Lyn Radford (Red Deer) 

• John Scott (Longview) 

• Doug Stollery (Edmonton) 

These recipients will be honoured at a special investiture ceremony this fall at Government House in Edmonton, where Lieutenant Governor Salma Lakhani will present the insignia to each honouree.  

Agriculture and the Alberta Order of Excellence 

Since 1979, the Alberta Order of Excellence has highlighted those who leave a lasting impact on our province through service, innovation and leadership, including many leaders in agriculture, education and community building. This year’s honourees are a powerful reminder that agriculture remains a cornerstone of Alberta’s identity. Their work, whether through education, ranch management, rural advocacy or philanthropy, strengthens not only local farms but the whole province. 

At Future Ag, we’re inspired by the passion, resilience and innovation of Alberta’s rural champions. We know that reliable farm equipment in Red Deer and dedicated service help fuel the same spirit of progress and excellence these leaders represent. Whether it’s Case IH tractors, modern farm implements, or new advances in precision agriculture, we’re here to support those who shape Alberta’s future. 

If you’re looking to grow your own legacy with trusted equipment and local expertise, contact our team or explore our selection of Kioti, Kubota, Toro and Case IH tractors today.