Lakeland Hosts Ninth Annual Feast on the Farm

Lakeland College Feast on the Farm live entertainment. Photo submitted

Lakeland College once again brought community, industry and alumni together for its annual Feast on the Farm on Thursday, Aug. 13 at the Vermilion campus.

Presented by Cenovus Energy, the ninth annual event was held outdoors at Lakeland’s Research Centre and was once again sold out. The evening offered guests a chance to gather under the prairie sky for good food, entertainment and conversation, all while supporting opportunities for Lakeland students.

Feast on the Farm was created with the feel of a harvest-time meal in mind. Instead of a traditional formal gala, guests gathered under a large tent on what was once a working farm and is now part of the college’s Research Centre.

The evening included a meal prepared by Lakeland’s culinary team, a student and alumni panel, silent auction, raffles and live entertainment from country artist Cole Martin.

While the event has become a popular summer gathering, there is a bigger purpose behind the evening. Money raised through Feast on the Farm supports hands-on, student-led learning across Lakeland College programs.

Since the event began in 2016, proceeds have helped support nearly 40 student-led projects. Those projects have covered a wide range of programs and experiences, including agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, business, trades, health and wellness and opportunities for students to compete and learn beyond the classroom.

“Feast on the Farm fuels student-led learning at Lakeland, expanding opportunities for real-world skill development and application,” said Lakeland College President and CEO Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart ahead of the event.

Cenovus Energy returned as presenting sponsor for the fifth year, continuing its long-standing support of Lakeland College and its students.

“Supporting Lakeland College’s Feast on the Farm reflects our commitment to helping prepare students for careers in various industries across the region,” said Dan Rusnell, Director of the Lloydminster Upgrader Complex for Cenovus Energy.

The partnership between Cenovus and Lakeland extends well beyond Feast on the Farm. Earlier this year, Cenovus announced a $2-million investment in the college to modernize learning spaces and expand dual-credit programming at both the Vermilion and Lloydminster campuses.

Feast on the Farm has continued to grow since it began, with the purpose of bringing people together while giving Lakeland students more opportunities to learn by doing.