Olds College was saddened to learn of the passing of J.C. (Jack) Anderson, who passed away on April 19, 2025. As a long time friend and significant donor to the College, Jack will be awarded the Olds College Honorary Degree on June 7, 2025 at this year's convocation. Accepting on his behalf will be his daughter, Wynne Chisholm.
Jack, known for his business acumen and passion for cattle ranching and automobiles, was just as well known for his profoundly charitable nature. It was this philanthropic spirit that allowed him to leave a lasting legacy in Alberta's education landscape. Olds College, in particular, has been the beneficiary of his remarkable generosity.
In his long history of donating to the College, Jack was recognized as Olds College’s 2012 Partner of the Year for his important contributions. In 2012 specifically, he donated 100 vintage cars and trucks — valued at roughly $2.5 million — for the College to auction off. Anderson’s most recent contribution, a $1.1 million donation, was allocated for the W.J. Elliot Trades Building Modernization and Expansion. Another previous donation includes support for the expanded and updated Animal Health and Technology Centre on campus.
Beyond his philanthropy, Jack Anderson was a true friend to the Olds College community, believing strongly in the vision of the College and always advocating for the knowledge passed through our hands-on learning approach. He cared deeply about students, and championed a learning environment that gave them the best opportunity to succeed.
We had the privilege of informing Jack about his honorary degree before his passing, and he was deeply moved by the recognition.