Community spirit and student success were on full display at Lakeland College's 2025 Feast on the Farm, presented by Cenovus Energy. Held outdoors on the Vermilion campus farm on Aug. 14, the sold-out fundraiser raised $89,500 in support of student-led projects, field trips, events and other immersive learning experiences.
Now in its eighth year, Feast on the Farm continues to highlight and support Lakeland's commitment to student-managed, hands-on learning. The funds raised go directly toward enhancing experiential education across all disciplines, from business and agricultural sciences to human services and trades.
"Feast on the Farm is one of the most meaningful events on our calendar, bringing together our community, industry partners, alumni and friends in celebration of our students. It provides a welcome opportunity to share what an incredible impact our community has had on the work we do and how they empower our students," says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College. "Our students don't just study - they design, lead, compete, plan and innovate. Feast on the Farm is a celebration of that spirit, and we are incredibly thankful to everyone who made this year's event a success.
Guests spent an evening under the prairie sky, complete with live entertainment from Abygale Durie and country-inspired cuisine. A panel of current students and recent graduates from environmental sciences, crop technology Student-Managed Farm - Powered by New Holland team, process and power engineering, and health and wellness shared stories of how student-led initiatives have enriched their education and career readiness.
This year's event was made possible thanks to the generosity of presenting sponsor Cenovus Energy, alongside champion sponsors and scholar supporters who continue to believe in the power of student-led learning.
"Cenovus's partnership with Lakeland College reflects our social commitment to developing future-ready youth through experiential, student-led learning. These experiences are realized through initiatives like Feast on the Farm, which provides funds that enhance educational opportunities and skills training to prepare young people for the jobs of today and tomorrow," says Clayton Ulrich, Cenovus's Senior Field Manager, Lloydminster Thermal, Conventional Heavy Oil Operations.
Since launching in 2016, Feast on the Farm has raised over $430,000 supporting more than 35 initiatives like the interior design technology playhouse, the first annual Border Beauty Showcase, international study trips, university transfer community garden, safety equipment for training facilities and more.
