U of S alumni document history of the Agriculture Building
University of Saskatchewan agriculture alumni Bob McKercher and Ted Turner have written a book about a classic Saskatchewan story of communities coming together to fulfill a dream: To construct the largest agriculture teaching and research facility in Canada.
Their new book, The Sodbusters Vision: An Agriculture Building for the University of Saskatchewan, From the Ground Up, walks readers through the history of the vision, planning and completion of the Agriculture Building on the University of Saskatchewan campus—a product of the passion, dedication and foresight of many individuals and a legacy for the future of the university.
The book launch will be held Friday, May 19 at 1 pm in the Leo F. Kristajanson Atrium of the Agriculture Building, with McKercher and Turner present for book signings.
McKercher (BSA ‘54, MSc ‘56) was a departmental representative on the college building committee for the planning of the new building and the assistant dean of planning for the sixth floor addition to the building, which was completed in 2001.
Turner (DipAg ’48) co-chaired the College of Agriculture Building Capital Campaign and served as university chancellor from 1989-1995.
In the time it took to raise the necessary funds, commence construction and organize the operations of the college, this project was overseen by two U of S presidents, four deans and numerous students, staff, faculty and alumni. Completed in 1991, the Agriculture Building is still a gem on campus over 25 years later, housing internationally reputed research, facilities, faculty and students.
The book will be available for purchase at the launch event (cash/cheque only) or online at www.saskaggrads.com. Proceeds of the book will be going to the Saskatchewan Agricultural Graduates’ Association (SAGA).