Brian and Laurel have been active donors in the community and have supported several causes, in particular Huskie Athletics. Experiencing failing health of elderly parents created increased knowledge of the health system and recognition of the value of contributions to Saskatoon’s hospitals and health organizations. Thus, it seemed appropriate to set up the Rossnagel Family Fund at Saskatoon Community Foundation to provide annual contributions in the area of health.
Brian grew up in Manitoba on a farm near Plumas and Laurel on a farm near Stony Beach, Saskatchewan. Brian studied at the University of Manitoba for his undergraduate degree and PhD degrees in agriculture and Laurel graduated from Red River Community College in Winnipeg. They moved to Saskatoon in 1977 where they both began lengthy careers at the University of Saskatchewan. Brian spent 35 successful years as a member of the Crop Development Centre, College of Agriculture and continues to pursue part-time research interests as Professor Emeritus since retirement in 2011. Laurel retired in 2005 after 30 years in various administrative positions including 16 years with University Advancement, giving both she and Brian a good understanding of the challenges and rewards of fundraising. Since then, she was pursued her art, spent more time golfing, helping her parents in their senior years and volunteered for favourite causes.
During his career, Brian has volunteered extensively in the agriculture arena at local, provincial, national and international levels, receiving a number of recognition awards for that leadership and effort. At present, Brian is a member of Prairieland Park and Ag-West Bio Inc. boards of directors. Having volunteered for several local organizations in the past, Laurel spent 2011 on the Mendel Art Board of Trustees and is currently a board member at Riverside Golf Club.