The Do More Agriculture Foundation (DMAF) has named Merle Massie as the organization’s new executive director.
Massie runs a grain farm in west-central Saskatchewan alongside her family and draws on her experience at the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health. She brings a unique dual perspective, both personal and professional, to lead DMAF in its mission of promoting mental well-being in the agricultural sector, the organization says.
“I’ve been an avid supporter of Do More Ag and its mission since its inception, because I know firsthand the difficulty in meeting mental health needs in rural spaces. I am beyond energized to be asked by the board to take the reins at Do More Ag, and guide it on the continued journey of good disruption for better mental health right across the Canadian agriculture industry,” says Massie.
A distinguished researcher and author, Massie combines academic rigour with community engagement to bring substantial and sustainable change, says the Foundation. Her vision as executive director is to ensure DMAF continues to foster and grow an agriculture industry where mental health is supported, prioritized, and normalized.
She steps into the role previously held by Megz Reynolds, who had served as Do More Ag’s executive director since early 2022.