When you are a dairy farmer and go on a holiday you certainly want to try something different! Ken Wilkes ’82 grad and his wife Peggy recently experienced a Sahara Desert tour. The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world and the third largest desert overall. Ken is used to tractors and trucks for transportation on Wilkridge Farm in Fourier ON. In the Sahara Desert he opted to go by camel. Camel trekking through the Sahara was an experience of a like time for Ken but he has returned home to his pure-bred Holstein herd and decided he really enjoys milking and farming. There is no career change in the foreseeable future.
The Kemptville College Alumni is pleased to announce our two scholarship recipients for 2025.
Ethan Ringelberg from Troy, Ontario is completing his diploma in the Farm Equipment/Heavy Equipment Technician program at Conestoga College in Guelph. Upon graduation, he will return to the 4th generation farm that has been in their family since 1955. The knowledge and skills Ethan has learned will be transferable enabling him to repair not only tractors and field equipment but also milking and other barn equipment. He chores ever day at Fennema Holsteins before leaving for class at Conestoga College.
Ethan has been very involved in community activities. Some of these are: Rockton Agricultural Society, Zion United Reformed Church and advertising campaigns with 4-H, Dairy Farmers of Ontario and Farm Safety. Ethan has also completed over 65 4-H clubs, including dairy, fishing, judging, baking, vet and STEM (covers fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math ). He is actively involved in farm work and his own small business of welding, clipper sharpening and as a Drone Pilot.
In five years, we know he will have his farm equipment “red seal”, be farming on the family farm and have his own farm repair business.
Katelyn Jackson from Gananoque, Ontario is completing her second year at Lakeland College, Vermilion, Alberta in Animal Science Technology with a Dairy Major. She plans to return to Evenstar Holsteins, the family farm. Also, in her plans are travelling and working on a farm in another country to deepen her understanding of the dairy industry. She has had many responsibilities on the family farm. Her favourite is managing calf care, so these calves will be healthy, productive, replacement animals in their herd.
4-H has been a large part of community activities. She attended the 4-H event “Future Leaders in Action” and now has the privilege to share that knowledge with younger 4-H members. Katelyn was proud to be in the Lakeland College’s Student Managed Farm (SMF) as the Herd Health Coordinator for the Dairy Unit. Lakeland is the only post-secondary institution in Canada to have a SMF.
In five years, she hopes to be working with family members making management decisions at their family farm and someday managing her own dairy farm.
Congratulations Ethan and Katelyn! Both recipients have a connection to Kemptville College and will each receive $1,000.00. The Kemptville College Alumni wishes you both continued success in the future.
The Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association is pleased to host the Kemptville College Alumni at this year’s Ottawa Valley Farm Show (OVFS). Kemptville College played a significant role in the lives of many farmers and agribusinesses across Eastern Ontario and beyond. It’s wonderful to see alumni continuing to connect through their involvement in the agriculture industry and community.
Alumni are invited to share stories, memories, and a few laughs while gathering at North Gower Grains Dining Hall A on Wednesday, March 12th, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Enjoy a cup of coffee during your visit and reconnect with fellow alumni!
Mark your calendars!
The 2025 Kemptville College Reunion will be held on August 16, 2025.
The 2026 Kemptville College Reunion will take place on June 13, 2026.
Recently, Pat Wilson ’66 grad, was awarded a certificate for 35 years leading 4-H clubs. Valerie Allen (left) is presenting the certificate and gift to Pat (right).
Pat leads life-skills clubs in sewing and food preparation. She will still continue to help with clubs in Prescott County. Pat is also a judge for homecraft and culinary competitions at annual agricultural fairs throughout Eastern Ontario. She has been doing this for 45 years. The Wilson family has Kemptville connections as well as 4-H leadership skills. Pat’s late husband, Murray graduated in ’66 and lead 4-H maple syrup clubs. Their son Gordon and his wife Inge ( Bauer ) graduated in ’95 and have both been involved in 4-H. A true community leader and family!
Gordon French, the Kemptville College Alumni President, presented the Kemptville College Alumni Champion Intermediate Showmanship Award to Adelia Bretzler. Her sister Myla came in second.
Adelia went on to become Honourable Mention Grand Champion Showperson.
Both girls have a proud Kemptville College connection with mom, Harrietta graduating in 2003 and dad Frank, graduating in 1995. The Bretzler family live in Crysler, Stormont County.
