OAC Alumni Honoured Among 2026 Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees

The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) is proud to celebrate four alumni who have been named among the 2026 inductees to the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame, recognizing their lasting contributions to the province’s agri-food sector. 

This year’s alumni inductees are Dr. Helen Fisher (posthumous), Percy Hodgetts (posthumous), Brian O’Connor, and The Honourable Robert Black.

Dr. Helen Fisher, widely known as “the Grape Doctor,” was a visionary viticulturist whose research and leadership helped transform Ontario’s wine industry. As an Associate Professor in OAC, she played a central role in shifting production toward vinifera grapes in the 1980s, elevating the international reputation of Ontario wines. Her research on cold protection, trellising systems, and rootstock selection provided practical tools for growers, while her dedication to teaching and mentorship shaped generations of industry leaders.

Percy Hodgetts is remembered as the “father of Ontario’s modern fruit industry.” Through a 41-year career with Ontario’s Department of Agriculture, including 35 years as Director of the Ontario Fruit Branch, he helped move the sector from small household orchards to a commercial industry. He helped advance the province’s pest management legislation, research infrastructure at Vineland, and grower education programs which strengthened the industry’s long-term resilience.

Brian O’Connor has left a significant mark on Ontario’s dairy and animal genetics sectors. As founding General Manager of EastGen, he helped unite major breeding organizations and championed technological innovation on farms. His long-standing commitment to youth development and policy advocacy has contributed to a stronger, more collaborative agricultural community.

The Honourable Robert Black has dedicated more than four decades to advancing agriculture through national policy and leadership. Appointed to the Senate of Canada in 2018, he has been a strong advocate for farmers, championing initiatives such as Food Day Canada and landmark work on soil health policy. His influence also extends to youth and leadership programs across rural Ontario.

OAC congratulates these outstanding alumni on their induction and thanks them for the lasting impact they have made on agriculture in Ontario and beyond.

Read more about the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in their news release.