April 2, 2019, Olds, AB- Olds College is pleased to announce that the United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Ltd. (UFA) has been selected as the Olds College 2019 Partner of the Year.
UFA recently partnered with Olds College in support of the College’s focus on agriculture innovation and technology with a donation of $500,000. The five-year financial commitment has enabled Olds College to create the UFA Innovation Lab, located on campus inside the newly constructed Smart Ag Innovation Centre, along with funding the Olds College Smart Farm.
In addition, UFA has also partnered with the College to host UFA Innovation Day, a Dragon’s Den style competition for students to pitch their ag innovation ideas. The top ideas will receive mentorship and financial support.
“UFA’s ongoing financial commitment is a reflection of a mutually beneficial partnership between two long standing agricultural organizations,” said Stuart Cullum, President, Olds College. “On behalf of the College, I would like to thank UFA for their continued commitment towards investing in the future of agricultural innovation and technology, investing in our students and investing in Olds College.”
“UFA believes strongly in the vision Olds College has for the future of its students and in the future of our agriculture industry in western Canada,” said Carol Kitchen, President and CEO of UFA Co-operative Ltd. “Our co-operative sees the partnership as a unique opportunity to invest in those students who can potentially build what our future looks like for agriculture and technology, all while encouraging diversity in thought and creating a culture of innovation. We can’t wait for what the future holds.”
The Olds College Partner of the Year is one of the most prestigious awards bestowed by Olds College. The recipients of this award reflect the mission of Olds College and support the values, mandate and vision in a manner that has a positive, measurable and lasting impact on the College.
The presentation of the Partner of the Year award will take place on April 12 at the College’s annual fundraiser, Homestead Feast. For more information on Homestead Feast or to purchase tickets visit oldscollege.ca/homesteadfeast.
