August 4, 2024
Ontario Agricultural College celebrates 150th Anniversary
The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), one of the University of Guelph’s three founding colleges, is celebrating 150 years of history, having opened its doors in May 1874. Today, OAC is a global leader in research and education in food, agriculture, communities and the environment, fulfilling its original ambition to become a world-class institution of higher learning.
From May until the end of 2024, the OAC will celebrate with a range of events, projects and activities that reflect its achievements and vision for the future. They include historical tours through campus, Food Day Canada celebrations and a capstone celebration during Alumni Reunion Weekend in June. The OAC community — alumni, faculty, staff, students and industry partners — is invited to reconnect with one another and share memories throughout the celebrations.
“The entire University of Guelph community is thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone in our history,” Dr. Charlotte Yates, U of G president and vice-chancellor, said in a press release. “OAC has a proud and rich legacy of developing leaders and cultivating innovation in the global agri-food sector.”
With its first graduating class of only 28 diploma students, held on a 550-acre farm purchased by the province, OAC has grown to over 3,300 students across two campuses and now leverages the network of research centres owned by the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO) that span the province.
A proud and rich legacy
OAC has always been a leader in innovation, research and teaching to support the agrifood sector as Dr. John Cranfield, acting dean of OAC reflects: “OAC is a beacon of support for those dedicated to nurturing the land, sustaining our communities and safeguarding the environment for future generations,” he said. “With strategic partnerships across various sectors, including government and organizations championing agriculture, food, the environment and rural communities, OAC is poised to continue its important mission.”
Originally named the Ontario School of Agriculture and Experimental Farm, OAC changed its name in 1880 to better reflect its purpose and ambitions. Amidst a world transforming through rapid scientific discoveries, the Ontario government intended the college to secure its place on the world stage. In 1874, it was one of the first schools in Canada to integrate scientific research into farming practices, helping to modernize agriculture across the country.
This commitment continues today as the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, the collaboration between the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and U of G.