The generosity of more than 1,100 donors throughout Canada and beyond has made Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign the most successful fundraising campaign in Lakeland College's history.

The campaign began in 2016 and concluded on June 30. A total of $13,374,066 was raised, surpassing the campaign goal of $11 million.

Students stand holding letters, spelling out Thanks Donors

“Our thanks to everyone for supporting Lakeland and our current and future students through their gifts to this campaign. We're thrilled that the enthusiastic support of donors made it possible for us to exceed our campaign goal. This support enables Lakeland to do what it does best: graduate job-ready leaders equipped for success in their careers and lives,” says Mike Kotelko, campaign leadership team chair and a member of Lakeland's Class of 1982.

Expanding student success, empowering the next leaders in agriculture, and growing results-oriented research were the campaign priorities, says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College.

While the total is impressive, Wainwright-Stewart said the number will slip from memory, but the impact of people's gifts will be felt now and for years to come.

“Our donors' contributions have already helped in so many tangible ways. They've strengthened the services available to our students in areas such as Indigenous services, mental health, athletics, and student awards.

“Our donors helped us modernize and expand our facilities and purchase more crop and pasture land where our student-managed learning concept can thrive. Gifts also supported our growing applied research efforts. We are increasing our capacity to produce results of value to industry and producers plus providing new student learning opportunities,” says Wainwright-Stewart.

Supporters of Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. reside in nine different Canadian provinces and three American states. Individuals, families, businesses, foundations, and organizations made gifts that ranged from $5 to $4 million.

Alumni, students, community members and Lakeland employees are among the 1,131 donors. Collectively they gave 3,077 gifts to the campaign. They gave gifts of cash, land, buildings, equipment, livestock, securities and life insurance. Some left a legacy by including Lakeland in their estate plans. Many contributed by participating in fundraising events such as the Rustlers Golf Tournament, President's Gala and Feast on the Farm.

“My heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a leading role during this exciting time of transformation for Lakeland College,” says Wainwright-Stewart. “Despite the challenges brought forth by COVID-19, the support of donors, our campaign leadership team and our employees never wavered, ensuring Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign was a resounding success.”

Photo: Students thank donors at a donor celebration event in Vermilion.