Olds College of Agriculture & Technology hosted its inaugural Common Ground event on June 18, 2026 at the Alumni Centre, bringing together elected officials, industry pioneers, community leaders and dedicated donors to celebrate the foundational partnerships driving the future of Canadian agriculture.
The evening highlighted the vital role that collaborative networks play in supporting development, food security and advanced technology integration. Upon arrival, the 230 guests were treated to a showcase of the latest agricultural technology, featuring an impressive display of heavy machinery lined up in the parking lot.
The interactive demonstration continued as attendees gathered in The Hive for a networking reception. Inside, guests explored smaller-scale, innovative campus technologies while enjoying a wide selection of expertly served hors d'oeuvres and refreshments.
The event then transitioned to the Alumni Centre for the formal program, which commenced with a heartfelt welcome and Indigenous Blessing from the Olds College Indigenous Services team. Al Kemmere, Chair of the Olds College Board of Governors, opened the evening by anchoring the event in the College’s century-long legacy of delivering hands-on, industry-focused education.
"While much has changed over the past hundred years, Olds College knows that one thing stays true: agriculture feeds the world," said Kemmere. "This sustained success is not possible without the collaboration between our industry partners, researchers, faculty and staff. Together, we can transform our economy for the better."
Following Kemmere's remarks, the Honourable Tara Sawyer, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, and the Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Finance, addressed the crowd.
Minister Sawyer delivered a meaningful address touching on her deep personal connection to the campus as the area’s MLA, a local farmer and a proud family member of two Olds College alumni. She recognized the College’s pivotal role in pushing the sector forward and emphasized the immense impact the agricultural industry has on driving the provincial economy.
Minister Nixon, who represents the neighbouring portion of Mountain View County and whose son is currently enrolled at the College, shared his own appreciation for the institution..
Olds College President & CEO, Dr. Debbie Thompson, then delivered an inspiring address emphasizing how technology is revolutionizing modern agriculture — making it smarter, more efficient and sustainable. Dr. Thompson highlighted the College’s unique responsibility as a premier agriculture-focused institution to lead innovations in robotics, automation, AI and data-driven precision agriculture.
"Our partners are the driving force of our growth, and we cannot fulfill our mission without them," noted Dr. Thompson. "Tonight, we are celebrating the role we all play in advancing agriculture for a better world."
Before dinner, the College celebrated its renewed food services agreement with Chartwells, who has proudly served the campus community since 2012. Guests were then treated to an exceptional, plated three-course "field-to-fork" dinner prepared by Chartwells. The menu directly celebrated local producers, sourcing bison from HGB Bison Ranch and honey from Three Hills Henry Brinks Pure and Natural Raw Honey.
Following dinner, keynote speaker Todd Hirsch took the stage to discuss the critical importance of adaptability within a complex and unpredictable global economy — a trait he noted was demonstrated daily by the producers and partners of the agricultural sector.
The true highlight of the evening came with the announcement of the 2026 Partners of the Year: Bob and Carollyne Collier. As the highest honour bestowed by Olds College, this prestigious award celebrates partners who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the vision of advancing agriculture for a better world. The announcement was met with two enthusiastic, well-deserved standing ovations for the philanthropists, whose transformative generosity has left a lasting legacy at the College.
Common Ground provided the ideal platform to celebrate the Colliers alongside the producers, industry partners and community leaders who make the College's mission possible. With new trades facilities and expanded learning spaces continuing to come online, Olds College remains firmly positioned as Alberta’s engine of agricultural growth, directly shaping the next generation of industry professionals, leaders and innovators.
As the highest honour bestowed by Olds College, this prestigious award celebrates partners who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the vision of advancing agriculture for a better world.