Donors are an essential part in advancing teaching, research, and the student experience in OAC. A philanthropic donation helps its students and researchers in helping OAC achieve its mission to Improve Life by inspiring leaders, generating knowledge and creating innovative solutions for food, agriculture, communities and the environment.
There are many ways you can contribute to the work of OAC, including donating now [1]to any of the priority projects below.
Class Projects [2]
One of the most impactful and humbling traditions in OAC is the tradition of alumni giving back to the college through class projects. These fundraising projects are spearheaded by a group of volunteers from a particular graduation year. These classes choose a priority that is important to them, set a fundraising goal and timeframe to support that project, and work with their classmates to meet the goals. Learn more about starting an OAC Class Project here. [2]
For more information, contact Morag Stewart, Director of Advancement
moragst@uoguelph.ca [3]| 519-824-4120, Ext. 56236
A Re-Imagined Honey Bee Research Centre [4]
The new planned Honey Bee Research Centre will help honey bees by conducting research, teaching and outreach focused on their health. A new, iconic facility focused on bee health, education, research, advocacy and outreach will help these essential pollinators, which are vital for our food system and our environment. The facility will become a destination; a place of excellence in both design and function, while continuing to execute excellence in research. Learn more about the new Honey Bee Research Centre here [5].
For more information, contact Shannon Fawns, Development Manager
fawnss@uoguelph.ca [6] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 53627
Planning for Tomorrow and Student Liaison Program
Our Planning for Tomorrow initiative is evolving to prepare students with the skills needed to succeed and support the future of the agriculture and food sectors. With stakeholder support, OAC is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to: 1) increase OAC program enrollment by expanding the OAC Student Liaison Program; 2) strengthen industry connections and skills development in our students through a Careers and Employment Manager; and 3) broadly promote the opportunities available in agriculture and food through a large-scale marketing campaign. Learn more on the OAC Student Liaison Program here [7] and Planning for Tomorrow here [8].
For more information, contact Shannon Fawns, Development Manager (OAC)
fawnss@uoguelph.ca [6] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 53627
OAC Learning Trust [9]
The Learning Trust provides a unique fund focused on supporting student engagement in hands-on learning experiences such as field trips, teaching labs, field study programs and international studies. These activities are often self-directed by the students and are always focused on enhancing the knowledge students have gained in the classroom. Some recent examples include the OAC Swine Club's trip to Iowa swine farms and facilities, the 8th Annual OAC Graduate Student Council Colloquium, and the University of Guelph’s Turf Club's attendance at the Collegiate Turf Bowl competition. Learn more about the OAC Learning Trust here. [10]
For more information, contact Morag Stewart, Director of Advancement (OAC)
moragst@uoguelph.ca [3] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 56236
OAC Dean’s Highest Priority Fund
The OAC Dean’s Highest Priority Fund provides support for urgent and unexpected needs, including supporting students in times of need, or the seizing of opportunities in innovative areas. It provides the flexibility to be responsive to unforeseen needs and an ever-changing world. In short, the OAC Dean’s Highest Priority Fund supports people, priorities and emerging projects. A current example is the Fall 2019 renovation and expansion of the student study and group work space in Johnston Hall. Our students have been asking for upgrades to support their educational and social experience at OAC, and donations to the Dean's Highest Priority Fund enabled us to respond to our students’ needs.
For more information, contact Morag Stewart, Director of Advancement (OAC)
moragst@uoguelph.ca [3] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 56236
Scholarships and Awards
Student awards are a significant part of OAC’s support of student success. Over 430 OAC-specific awards, totalling $1.5 million, are given to OAC students annually, thanks to the generous support of alumni, donors and partners. Establishing an award is truly meaningful way to improve the lives of students. More information on the steps in establishing an award is available here. [11]
For more information, contact Shannon Fawns, Development Manager (OAC)
fawnss@uoguelph.ca [6] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 53627
Other Giving Priorities
Interested in other fundraising areas? Visit this page to see a full list of OAC’s current fundraising projects. [1]
To discuss your philanthropic support or to learn more about other funding opportunities, please reach out to Morag Stewart, Director of Advancement,
moragst@uoguelph.ca [3] | 519-824-4120, Ext. 56236
Also, you may find it helpful to determine the full tax credit value of your donation on the Canada Revenue website. [12]