Alumni_2025_April - Massey University

Your latest Alumni newsletter

Kia ora koutou katoa,

Welcome to the Autumn edition, where we spotlight alumni whose careers span generations and fields – united by a shared passion for agriculture, dairy, soil science, and veterinary care. From pioneers like Dr Roger Ball, whose research helped shape modern agricultural science in Aotearoa New Zealand, to Stuart Gouk, who took his experience into global leadership roles, our stories reflect the enduring impact of a Massey education. We also celebrate the drive and ambition of our younger alumni – James Robertson, who became the youngest-ever FMG Young Farmer of the Year at just 22; Emma Poole, the first female to take the title in the event’s history; and newly minted graduate Len McArdle, who crossed the stage with assistance dog Andi, sending a powerful message about perseverance and possibility.

We also celebrate the journeys of recently graduated alumni as they embark on new adventures beyond university.

We hope you enjoy reading these inspiring stories and celebrating the incredible impact our Massey whānau continues to make – both here in Aotearoa and around the world.

Ngā mihi nui,
Alumni Relations Team

Dr Roger Ball – a Massey pioneer’s legacy in agricultural science

At 85 years old, Dr Roger Ball reflects on a career that helped shape the foundations of modern agricultural science in Aotearoa New Zealand. His story is one of scientific accomplishment and of humility, deep curiosity, and a steadfast belief in the power of education, community, and the land.

Stuart Gouk – from curious farm boy to global leader

When Stuart Gouk reflects on his life and career, he traces it all back to a dairy farm in Ōhaupō, a small town near Te Awamutu. It was from there that his journey eventually took him across the world in senior leadership roles – most recently to Melbourne, where he has stepped into a new role as Site Manager for Lactalis.

James Robertson – Young Farmer of the Year making an impact in global agribusiness

James Robertson grew up in Waikato with a passion for farming and saw the industry’s demand for skilled graduates. That passion led him to Massey’s Bachelor of AgriCommerce programme, which offered the perfect balance of business knowledge and hands-on agricultural experience. James made history by becoming the youngest-ever FMG Young Farmer of the Year winner at just 22 years old.

Emma Poole – pioneering woman in farming and Veterinary Science

When Emma Poole won the FMG Young Farmer of the Year in 2023, she became the first woman to take the title in the competition’s 55-year history. For Emma, it wasn’t just about making history but proving that women have a firm place in agriculture. A Massey University Bachelor of Veterinary Science alumna, she has created a career that combines her two biggest passions: farming and veterinary care.

Len McArdle – breaking barriers in Veterinary Science with grit, perseverance and community support

Len McArdle crossed the graduation stage with assistance dog Andi by their side – both capped in a powerful moment of resilience. Serious health challenges, personal loss, and unwavering determination marked Len’s journey to becoming a veterinarian. Supported by a strong community at Massey and driven by the belief that they belonged in veterinary medicine, Len is now proudly stepping into the profession they worked so hard to join.

Calling all Food and Agribusiness short course alumni!

If you’ve attended the Food and Agribusiness short course at Massey University since 2017 and would like to share your career journey with our alumni in a future e-newsletter, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with the Alumni Office at alumni@massey.ac.nz.

Massey University is here

Meet Massey’s inspiring alumni, students, and staff at the roadshow in Waikato on Monday 9 June.

Many Waikato students learn online and on-campus through Massey University. We’re in town to learn how to best serve your region’s future needs.

Vice-Chancellor gives a year’s notice of resignation

After eight years of leading Massey University through some of its most challenging years, Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas has announced she will step down from the role. Alumni, staff and student committees have been established to support the University Council with the selection process for a new Vice-Chancellor.

Massey University achieves strong performance in 2025 QS Subject Rankings

Massey University has once again achieved impressive results in the 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Subject Rankings.

Entries open for the 2025 New Zealand Food Awards

New Zealand’s most innovative food and beverage producers – it’s your time to shine by entering the 2025 New Zealand Food Awards. Organisers are encouraging businesses of all sizes to enter and share the stories that set them apart between 1-30 May, shining a light on the technology, passion, creativity and key people behind each food product.

Animal health takes a team: Celebrating the diverse roles in the veterinary field

World Vet Day 2025 celebrates the many essential roles professionals play in the veterinary and animal health field. We caught up with a few of our experts from Tāwharau Ora School of Veterinary Science to learn more about their contributions to animal health, welfare and public safety.

Large Animal Teaching Unit celebrates 30 years of shaping veterinary education

The Large Animal Teaching Unit (LATU) marks a milestone this year, celebrating three decades of enriching veterinary education by enhancing students’ practical skills and deepening their knowledge of animal welfare.

Semester 2 applications open

Whether you're changing direction, switching where you’re studying or simply ready for something new, we'll help you take the next step. Semester 2 starts in July and is an ideal time for you to try something new to enhance your career. With flexible study options, you can work while you learn and shape your future on your terms.

Massey Foundation launches major fundraising campaign For a Better World

A visionary transformation of the stream that runs through its Manawatū campus to inspire generations towards a more sustainable future is at the heart of an exciting fundraising campaign by Massey Foundation.

Discover and win!

Explore the latest releases across a variety of genres and be in to win a brand-new publication. As a special thank you to our alumni, we’re offering an exclusive 20% discount on all Massey University Press books. Don’t miss out!

Connect with your alumni community!