Lakeland College Ag students will be the recipients of a series of awards throughout the next ten years thanks to a gift from Northlands, and it was presented at the Vermilion campus on Aug. 17. Photo courtesy of Lakeland College
One of the oldest non-profit organizations in Alberta has left a parting-gift for current and future Lakeland College students.
Northlands organizers, after wrapping up operations in 2021, have chosen to support the future of agriculture through the newly-created Northlands Legacy Agriculture Award.
“We are pleased to provide these funds to support agriculture education at Lakeland College,” says Jerry Bouma, transition board chair for Northlands.
“Indeed, it is with great pride that the Northlands’ legacy of service will now be carried by Lakeland College and its long-standing commitment to agriculture.”
The gift of $145,000 was awarded to Lakeland College on Aug. 17 at the Vermilion campus. The award will be given to four students annually for 10 years.
“We are so appreciative of this gift from Northlands,” said Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College.
“For decades, Northlands has been a driving force in agriculture in Alberta, and as they end operations, it seems only fitting that they choose to support that on-going legacy of leadership in ag through this award.”
Award recipients will be agriculture science students in good standing, who are recognized for their leadership outside of the classroom.
“It is such a meaningful way to honour the legacy of the Northlands organization and our future leaders in agriculture. It will make a huge difference for the students who receive it,” said Wainwright-Stewart.
Northlands began operations in 1879, and were in charge of K-Days and Farmfair International until July 2021, when the organization handed over the reins to Explore Edmonton.
