The Do More Agriculture Foundation has appointed Emma Cross as chair of its Board of Directors. The Foundation is also welcoming three new directors who will help guide continued efforts to champion mental health across Canadian agriculture.

A pedigreed Hereford cattle rancher from Tofield, Alberta, Cross brings both firsthand agricultural experience and extensive expertise across the beef industry to the role. Deeply rooted in agriculture, she considers ranching a core part of her identity and is passionate about helping fellow producers thrive.

Cross takes over the role from Sartaj Sarkaria, who has served as chair since December of 2024. Sarkaria remains a valued member of the board and will stay actively involved with the organization.

The Foundation welcomes three new members to its Board of Directors:

• -  John Kowalchuk, a Central-Alberta grain farmer with deep commitments to strengthening rural communities.
• -  Richard Horne, executive director of Beef Farmers of Ontario, bringing extensive experience in agricultural leadership, advocacy, and industry engagement.
• -  Jessica Stiles, an Ontario-based psychotherapist whose unique combination of agricultural and mental health expertise will provide valuable insight to the Foundation's work.

Together, the new chair and incoming directors bring a wealth of agricultural, leadership, communications, and mental health expertise that will help strengthen the Foundation's ability to support the wellbeing of farmers, farm families, agricultural workers, and rural communities across Canada.

Source: The Do More Foundation June 23, 2026 news release