(Image Credit: The Notables: 2026 AFSC Women in Ag Award winners. (Photo credit Carbon Life Media Inc.))

By Josh Hall

int'l womens day

AFSC celebrates women in Alberta agriculture

Mar 10, 2026 | 4:51 PM

The Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) recently celebrated the winners of its 2026 Women in Ag Awards.

The AFSC notes recipients are translating expertise into real-world results, developing the next gen of ag leaderships, and building networks while bolstering rural communities.

This past Sunday was International Women’s Day, hence the timing.

“At AFSC, we know that agriculture is more than just an industry, it’s a community, a legacy, and a way of life. For close to 90 years, we’ve stood alongside Alberta’s producers — helping farm businesses navigate challenges and opportunities while building for the future,” explained Shelley Vandenberg, AFSC board member

“That’s why we’re proud to present The Notables and to champion initiatives like the Women in Ag Awards, which recognizes the leadership, innovation, and impact across our industry.  We’re proud to celebrate the women who are driving the future forward.”

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The 2026 AFSC Women in Ag Award winners are:

Robyne Davidson, Lacombe – The Innovator

Robyne Davidson has dedicated more than three decades to advancing pulse crop research in Alberta. She has strengthened the province’s pulse industry and helped shape the next generation of women in agricultural science.

Laura Brown, Erskine – The Operator

Laura Brown has devoted more than five decades to Alberta’s beef industry and has been a cornerstone of LLB Angus since 1978. Her strength, knowledge and commitment have made a lasting impact on her community and the cattle sector.

Michelle Rigney, Westlock – The Ignitor

Michelle Rigney has strengthened Alberta agriculture through her leadership as an AFSC lending coach and dedicated community volunteer. Her steady guidance continues to support women in agriculture both within AFSC and beyond.

Dr. Brenda Ralston, Balzac – The Professional Leader

Dr. Brenda Ralston has dedicated more than three decades to advancing livestock research, animal welfare and mentorship in Alberta agriculture. Her leadership continues to strengthen the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Beth Cash, Seven Persons–Cypress County – The Promoter

Beth Cash has championed women in agriculture through entrepreneurship, economic development and community leadership in southeastern Alberta. Her work continues to amplify women’s voices across the industry.

Alexandra Brochu, Girouxville – The Community Builder Alexandra Brochu founded Northern Rural Chicks to connect and support women in northern agriculture. Her work has created meaningful spaces where rural women can grow in confidence and community.

Lisa Kitt, Goodfare – The Maverick Lisa Kitt of The Homestead Farm leads with courage, integrity and a deep commitment to regenerative agriculture. Through her advocacy, filmmaking collaborations and public leadership, she has amplified the voices of small-scale producers and women in agriculture.

Jordyn Prior, Irma – The Emergent-Rising Star Jordyn Prior is a next-generation leader strengthening Alberta agriculture through youth development, strategic partnerships and storytelling. Her advocacy for producers and women in agriculture continues to shape the future of the industry.

Jackie Rae Greening, St. Albert – The Notable Lifetime Achiever For more than four decades, Jackie Rae Greening has been one of Alberta agriculture’s most trusted voices. Through her leadership at 840 CFCW, she has championed rural communities, elevated women’s stories and ensured producers remain at the heart of Alberta’s airwaves.

“For every acre seeded, every animal grown, every step along the food supply chain, women have been there, leading the way,” said RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation. “I was honoured to be a part of AFSC’s celebration, recognizing incredible Alberta women who make our ag sector the growing success it is. Congratulations to this year’s Notables!”