2026 AAAS Convention Gala Night: Celebrating Farm Families For years, our Convention Gala Night has been about themes, costumes, and creativity. This year, we are choosing to celebrate something even more meaningful: Farm Families.

Gala Night is a tribute to farm families, the backbone of agricultural societies and rural communities across Alberta. These are the families who volunteer, lead, organize, and show up year after year to keep fairs, events, and traditions alive.

The evening will feature the Farm Family Awards, recognizing families whose dedication, leadership, and generational involvement continue to shape agriculture and community life across the province.

This is not a costume night. It is an evening to gather, connect, and honour the families who make our work possible. 2026 AAAS Convention Everyone’s Welcome! You don’t have to be part of an agricultural society to attend. The convention is open to anyone interested in community, agriculture, and rural Alberta.

Canadian Foundation for Food and Agricultural Education

Focused on community

Inspiring knowledge and understanding of the importance of sustainable agriculture to society

Alessia Marchesan, University of Alberta

Ivarson Ag PhD Scholarship Recipient

Shane Collins, University of Alberta

Ivarson Ag Scholarship MSc Recipient

Claire Bertens, University of Saskatchewan

Ivarson AG PhD Recipient

Adele Beaudoin, University of Alberta

Ivarson AG MSc Recipient