Features

A world-leading scientist at the University of Guelph whose discoveries have revolutionized our understanding of food has been awarded one of the province’s highest honours.

Dr. David McCarthy, professor in the School of Environmental Sciences, Ontario Agricultural College and Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Waterborne Pathogens: Surveillance, Prediction and Mitigation, will develop innovative technologies that will enable earlier detection and better control of waterborne diseases.  

The University of Guelph and Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health have partnered to support the continuation of wastewater monitoring of COVID-19, influenza and more in the city of Guelph. 

The legacy of Mathew Hartman, a U of G student who unexpectedly passed away in 2023, will live on through a $1-million gift from his parents to support an OAC field course in Costa Rica. 

U of G masters students provided key insights on food price dynamics and supply chain challenges to the Chief Economist of the Government of Ontario’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness through a unique master’s level consultancy course in the Ontario Agricultural College. The course helped build students’ professional and technical skills while helping inform key agri-food policymakers. 

Hello everyone,

As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on an incredible year for the Ontario Agricultural College. This year was especially meaningful as we celebrated our 150th anniversary in style, highlighted by a gala event during Alumni Weekend. It was a moment to honor our rich history and the profound impact OAC has had on food, agriculture, communities, and the environment.

How society adopts agricultural innovations is as critical as the technologies themselves. Professor Ataharul Chowdhury’s work with a new global initiative highlights the social dynamics of technology adoption, combating misinformation and fostering collaboration to ensure sustainable food systems. 

As World Soil Day approaches on December 5th, the spotlight shines on the critical role soil health plays in sustaining life on Earth. Soil is the cornerstone of food production, climate regulation, and ecosystem resilience. At the University of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), graduate students are leading innovative research to improve soil health, shaping the future of agriculture and sustainability.

From reducing soil compaction to addressing microplastic contamination, their work underscores the value of healthy soils for ensuring food security and mitigating climate change. Here’s a look at the groundbreaking research being done by four exceptional students and its far-reaching impact.

Thomas Deng’s dreams have always been big. From Millbank, BC, the first-year BSc Agricultural Science student is the inaugural recipient of the Wilder Family Leadership Scholarship, receiving an $80,000 boost toward his career ambitions in agriculture and food – an award he calls life-changing.

OAC graduate Conor Russell has dedicated his young career to managing environmental resources and bolstering food security in support of global sustainability and humanitarian goals.