Agricultural research at Lethbridge Polytechnic has received a significant financial boost.
The estate of Joe and Laverna Hranac has donated $2.8 million toward the Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm. This is the second-largest donation in the institution’s history.
The gift will help continue and expand applied agriculture research at the site.
The post-secondary says it will also enhance capacity for student-focused, industry-connected agricultural research.
“This legacy gift from Joe and Laverna Hranac ensures our students and researchers can continue to work alongside industry partners to solve real-world agricultural challenges,” says Dr. Brad Donaldson, president and CEO of Lethbridge Polytechnic.
“It’s a lasting investment in education, innovation, and the agricultural community that helped shape the Hranacs’ lives.”
For over three decades, the polytechnic has conducted applied research, most recently with the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CARIE). The Centre has managed operations on the 385-acre research farm since 2020 as part of a lease agreement with the provincial government.
“The Hranac family’s gift – to support the research farm – strengthens our ability to respond to emerging challenges in southern Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food sector, specifically in the areas of integrated food production systems, irrigation science and post-harvest technology,” says Dr. Andrew Dunlop, associate vice-president – research.
“Their generosity also supports the polytechnic’s commitment to hands-on, applied learning that is deeply connected to industry.”
Joe and Laverna Hranac grew up in southern Alberta and were lifelong sugar beet, grain, and canola producers who farmed land south of Chin and Cranford. Joe passed away in 2008, while Laverna died in 2022.
“Joe and Laverna’s roots were based in farming, and along with that they carried a love of education and family throughout their lives,” says Joe’s niece, Cindy Powell.
“They believed in working hard, helping others and creating opportunities for the next generation. This gift reflects their vision of what’s possible and the kindness they shared with everyone around them.”
The polytechnic says estate gifts like this one from Joe and Laverna Hranac shine a light on the lasting benefits of planned giving. Officials say they help shape the future of education and create great opportunities for students and researchers. More information on planned giving is on the Lethbridge Polytechnic website.
