The University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus is launching a new entrance scholarship program to recognize top incoming students and attract future leaders to diploma programs in agriculture, environmental management and horticulture.

Set to be awarded for the first time this fall, the $1,500 scholarships will be offered under the campus Student Awards Program, which distributes close to $200,000 to students each year.

Recipients of these new scholarships will be selected based on admission average.

“I’m excited about the impact these new scholarships will have on helping students meet their academic and career goals,” said Brett Shepherd, director, Ridgetown Campus. “Ridgetown Campus has been a very special place for so many graduates, and this new award will help even more students become part of our campus community.”

Along with start-up funds from the Ontario Agricultural College and Ridgetown Campus, community support has helped fund these scholarships, said Grant Craven, co-chair, Ridgetown Campus Agri-Food Foundation.

“We are thankful to the generous donors who have supported the new Agri-Food Entrance Scholarships so far,” he said. “We are currently in the launch phase, with a focus on finding additional donor support for this fall. We welcome additional charitable gifts from individuals or organizations interested in supporting the new initiative.”

To discuss supporting the Agri-Food Entrance Scholarships, contact Liz Meidlinger at emeidlin@uoguelph.ca or 519-350-0203.

Ridgetown Campus offers diploma, certificate, apprenticeship and continuing education programs.

Potential students can visit the website to learn more about academic programs and student life opportunities.

The campus will hold a virtual open house April 21. Pre-register through the website or contact the student recruiter at rcampus@uoguelph.ca or 519-358-9542.