The Do More Agriculture Foundation Announces Emma Cross as Board Chair and Welcomes Three New Directors
June 23, 2026
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – The Do More Agriculture Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of 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.
“Emma has been with The Do More Agriculture Foundation since early 2024 and took on the role of Vice-Chair in December 2024. Since I arrived, Emma has been a key participant in human resources, strategy, and on-the-ground outreach work,” said Merle Massie, Executive Director of The Do More Agriculture Foundation. “As a farmer-created and farmer-driven foundation, I love to see Emma take the helm. She brings momentum, connection, and a deep commitment to the mission.”
“Like so many other Canadian farmers and ranchers, agriculture isn’t just a job to me - it’s who I am,” says Cross. “The hard-working and resilient people behind our industry are what make agriculture work. I am honoured to help lead an organization that is working to ensure mental health remains a priority to preserve our most important resource - farmers and ranchers. I’m excited to build on the Foundation’s momentum and continue supporting producers, farm families, and rural communities in building a culture where support and wellbeing are as important as any other farm input.”
The Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Sartaj Sarkaria for her leadership and commitment during her tenure as Chair.
“On behalf of the Board and team, we want to thank Sartaj for her thoughtful leadership, dedication, and steady guidance,” said Massie. “Her contributions have helped strengthen the Foundation's impact and position it for continued growth. We are grateful that she will remain actively involved as a member of the Board.”
Under Sarkaria’s leadership, the Foundation expanded its reach and engagement across Canadian agriculture, including the continued growth of the AgTalk peer-to-peer online support platform, the launch of a podcast series, and ongoing work to strengthen governance and national outreach.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of The Do More Agriculture Foundation and to work alongside such passionate board members, staff, volunteers, and industry partners,” said Sarkaria. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and of the progress made in advancing mental health awareness and support across Canadian agriculture. Emma brings a deep understanding of our industry, a genuine commitment to helping producers succeed, and a strong vision for the future. I am also excited to welcome the Foundation’s newest board members, whose diverse experiences and perspectives will help strengthen our work in the years ahead. I look forward to supporting Emma and the Foundation in my continued role on the Board.”
The Foundation is pleased to welcome 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.
The Foundation also extends heartfelt thanks to outgoing board members. Lesley Kelly and Himanshu Singh, who have contributed to the organization since its beginning. Their dedication, will, and expertise have shaped the Foundation’s growth and impact.
“A strong board, rooted across Canada, is key to ensuring we can support those working in agriculture wherever they are,” said Massie. “Our focus remains action for awareness, community for belonging, and helping people connect to resources that work for them. We all share in the mission: cultivate a culture of wellbeing with Canadian agricultural communities.”
About The Do More Agriculture Foundation
The Do More Agriculture Foundation (Do More Ag) is Canada’s national charitable organization championing mental health in agriculture. Founded by farmers, our mission is to cultivate a culture of mental wellbeing within agricultural communities across the country. Through our three pillars—Action for Awareness, Community for Connection, and Resources for Support—we work to increase understanding, strengthen connections, and provide practical support for farms, farm families and agriculture communities. Stay connected at www.domore.ag.
Media Contact
Merle Massie
Executive Director
Email: merle@domore.ag
Phone: 306-948-6171