David Wees
Faculty Lecturer and Associate Director, Farm Management and Technology Program
Department of Plant Science, Macdonald Campus, McGill University
For more than three decades, David Wees has been a cornerstone of teaching, mentorship, and innovation at McGill University’s Macdonald Campus. As a Faculty Lecturer and Associate Director of the Farm Management and Technology (FMT) Program, and a member of the Department of Plant Science, he has inspired generations of students to see the connections between science, sustainability, and community in modern agriculture.
David first joined McGill’s faculty in 1988, following the completion of both his BSc in Agriculture and MSc in Horticulture at the university. His teaching bridges theory with practice, reflecting a lifelong commitment to experiential learning. Through courses such as Urban Horticulture, Greenhouse Management, Introduction to Plant Science, Vegetable and Fruit Crops, Greenhouse Crop Production and Landscape Design, he challenges students to think critically about how plants, food systems, and people interact in an evolving agricultural landscape.
An expert in horticulture, greenhouse crop production, and urban agriculture, David brings real-world insight to the classroom, shaped by his involvement in community and sustainability initiatives including the Macdonald Campus Orchard, McGill Feeding McGill, and the Tree Planting Initiative. His work also extends to applied research on culinary herbs, greenhouse management, and local food production technologies, reinforcing McGill’s leadership in sustainable agriculture.
Beyond teaching, David is a prolific extension author and communicator, contributing practical guides and technical resources for organizations such as CRAAQ and Agri-Réseau. His publications on greenhouse herb production, raspberry and pepper cultivars, and urban horticulture are widely used by growers and educators across Quebec. As a media expert for McGill, he frequently shares his knowledge with the public, promoting science-based approaches to horticulture and food production.
David’s dedication to student advising is what truly distinguishes him. In 2023, he was honored with the Dean of Students Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Academic Advising, recognized in the Academic Staff category for his exceptional empathy, accessibility, and support. His advising philosophy is deeply student-centered—grounded in listening, understanding, and helping each student navigate both academic challenges and the transitions of university life. Students and colleagues alike describe him as a trusted mentor whose guidance extends far beyond the classroom.
Through his teaching, mentorship, and outreach, David Wees exemplifies the spirit of the Macdonald Campus: a commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and the cultivation of both plants and people. His influence continues to shape the next generation of agricultural leaders and educators at McGill University.