Brian Garland
Special of the Tribune/Advisor
The first class of students in the Applied Sustainable Ranching Program commenced in January of 2016 at the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campus here in Williams Lake.
This is an historic occasion for TRU and our city for many reasons.
Ranching is a major industry and its support and contribution to our local economy is substantial.
Our TRU recognized this and pursued the opportunity to ally education to local economic needs while recognizing a great need to offer education here in B.C. and, better yet, in Williams Lake.
Many young, local ranchers have taken agricultural education in Alberta where three universities and colleges have offered agricultural education for many years.
This program at our campus is unique in B.C.
The program will grow and is expected to attract Canadian and international students over time.
As TRU Williams Lake continues to grow it will be a major part of our overall economic strength along with mining, forestry and tourism.
Thanks to Ray Sanders and his TRU team, David Zirnhelt and his ranching experience and contacts and the support of our Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA,
Donna Barnett, the ranching program is now underway.
TRU GRIT awarded six $2,000 bursaries to assist students with enrolment fees.
This was possible only through the generous support of our community who support the TRU GRIT fundraising efforts.
We thank you and salute your continued support.
Our major fundraising event is the Gala “Diamonds and Denim,” which will be held this year on Saturday, April 2, 2016.
Tickets are available at TRU or Cariboo GM.
Please continue to support this event and the hard-working volunteers who make it happen.
This is all about education and building an even better community for us and for the future.
Brian Garland is the foundation chair of TRU GRIT.