Stephen Lewis talk today at the Global Development Symposium at the University of Guelph

GUELPH, Ontario May 7, 2012 - University of Guelph News - Stephen Lewis, a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS in some of the world’s poorest countries, delivers the keynote speech today at the “Global Development Symposium: Critical Links Between Human and Animal Health.”

The symposium, which runs until Wednesday, is part of the Ontario Veterinary College’s 150th-anniversary celebrations.

Along with Lewis, a distinguished visiting professor at Ryerson University, the event will feature David Butler-Jones, Canada’s chief public health officer; Brian Evans, Canada’s chief food safety officer and chief veterinary officer; John McDermott, director of the research program on agriculture for improved nutrition and health with the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research; and U of G president Alastair Summerlee.

Beyond veterinary medicine, the symposium will explore interdisciplinary approaches to improve public health and food security and strengthen communities. It brings together social, environmental, medical and veterinary scientists with policy-makers, students and community members interested in global development.

For more information, see www.gds2012.ca.