The savvy PEI farmer and communicator, Mary Robinson, is known by her Twitter handle:  agproudmary.  Expect to see more on her social media channels as she navigates a new role as a Canadian senator.

On January 22, the Prime Minister of Canada appointed her to the Senate of Canada, citing “Ms. Robinson’s experience in agriculture and business will bring an important perspective to the Senate, where she will be a strong voice for Atlantic Canada.”

Mary Robinson made history as the first female president of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, steering the organization from 2019 to 2023. Her tenure witnessed exemplary leadership in navigating the challenges posed by COVID-19 and its far-reaching consequences on Canada's agriculture sector. A dynamic national figure in Canadian agriculture, she has spearheaded numerous transformative initiatives, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to Canadian agriculture. 

Hailing from Prince Edward Island, Mary Robinson is a managing partner of a 6th generation family farm operation, Eric C. Robinson Inc. and its sister company Island Lime and serves on the boards of associated companies PEI Agromart and Mid-Isle Farms. Prior to her role at CFA, she served as the first female chair at the Canadian Agriculture Human Resource Council, held the presidency of the PEI Federation of Agriculture from 2015 to 2017, and joined the board of directors of the World Farmers’ Organization (WFO) in 2020. In recognition of her global impact, Mary was elected vice-president of the World Farmers Organization in May 2023. Currently, she holds positions on the UPEI board of governors and the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity board of directors.

As a proud representative of the Robinson family's agricultural legacy in Augustine Cove, Prince Edward Island, Mary Robinson's appointment to the Senate reflects her deep-rooted commitment to advancing Canadian interests.

Keith Currie, CFA president, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Mary has consistently been a stalwart leader and advocate for Canadian agriculture. We are thrilled to see someone of her caliber, with extensive knowledge, expertise, and a profound understanding of agriculture, join the Senate."

Source: Canadian Federation of Agriculture January 22, 2024 news release