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The idea that humans could “hack” Earth’s climate first captured Isaac Bahler’s imagination as a child. While the science remains complex and risky, the field has shaped his path — including his decision to study Earth Sciences and Physics at ���� after leaving his hometown of Red Deer, Alta.

“If we’re going to mess with systems as complex as the global climate, then I’m going to need a background that lets me quantify them as rigorously as possible,” he says.

Last November, that drive helped make Bahler ����’s 95th Rhodes Scholar. He was one of 11 Canadians — and more than 100 students globally — selected for the prestigious award, which funds graduate study at the University of Oxford.

“Essentially just shock,” he says of receiving the news after a day of waiting post‑interview. “It's an enormous opportunity… I didn’t expect to get it.”

Bahler is known on campus for balancing academics, varsity swimming, research, and entrepreneurship. He co‑founded Equlantic Aquatic Monitoring, leading his team to more than $40,000 in funding and a global competition win. He also works with CarbonRun, a Dal spinout developing CO₂‑removal technologies.

“Isaac has gotten involved in nearly every aspect of student life at Dal,” says Dr. Charles Macdonald, dean of Science. “He’s a deserving Rhodes Scholar.”

At Oxford, Bahler hopes to deepen his work at the intersection of climate science and real‑world solutions.

—Matt Reeder

Two prominent members of the ���� community are among the newest appointees to the Order of Canada. On December 31, Governor General Mary Simon announced 80 new appointments, including Dal President Kim Brooks and longtime Faculty of Medicine professor Dr. Patrick Croskerry.

President Brooks was appointed for her contributions as a tax lawyer, professor, and human rights advocate, and for advancing equity, accessibility, and gender‑expression rights in higher education. Her citation notes that “she champions Nova Scotia and is a thoughtful voice for inclusive leadership.”

Board Chair Cheryl Fraser says the honour reflects “the spirit, enthusiasm, and pride with which Kim represents ����.”

Dr. Croskerry, a retired professor of Emergency Medicine, was recognized for his leadership in understanding diagnostic error and for developing curricula that improve clinical judgment and risk assessment. “I am very happy that the award has been directed at an area of health care that hasn't attracted a lot of attention,” he says.

Several Dal alumni were also appointed: gymnast Ellie Black, celebrated for inspiring young athletes; investor and community advocate Mark Dobbin (MBA’83); and open‑access pioneer John Willinsky (PhD’82). Honorary degree recipient The Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella (LLD’85) was named a Companion of the Order.

—Ryan McNutt

Extended Learning in ����’s Faculty of Agriculture launched Future Farm: Precision Agriculture Training last summer. It is a new program funded by Upskill Canada and powered by Palette Skills and the Government of Canada.

The rapid upskilling initiative takes an industry‑led approach to preparing workers for high‑demand roles in digital agriculture. “We are thrilled to offer this innovative training program,” says Tracy Kittlilsen, manager with Extended Learning. With the fast adoption of digital tools in agriculture, she says there is growing need for professionals who can use technology “to drive efficiency, sustainability, and productivity.”

Future Farm introduces learners to digital and data‑driven farming, offering foundational knowledge in imaging, mapping, tracking, robotics, and sensors, with emphasis on their economic and environmental impacts. The four‑week online program includes a three‑day in‑person component on Dal’s Truro Campus, where participants gain hands‑on experience. Learners also receive job‑readiness training and connect with employers through a networking event.

“We are proud to welcome ���� to the Upskill Canada program,” says Mark Beckles, CEO of Palette Skills. Workers who complete the program, he notes, “will have the most current skills, allowing them to support sustainability and innovation.”

Launched in 2023, Upskill Canada has helped thousands of workers transition into jobs in Canada’s high‑growth sectors.

—Stephanie Rogers