Lethbridge, Alberta (Rural Roots Canada) — Joe and Laverna Hranac spent their lives growing sugar beets, grain, and canola. With no children of their own, they found another way to invest in farming’s future – a $2.8 million gift to agricultural research at Lethbridge Polytechnic. 

The donation from the Hranacs estate is the second largest in the school’s history. It will support operations at Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm, allowing students to help solve real problems in the agriculture industry. 

Dr. Brad Donaldson, president and CEO of Lethbridge Polytechnic, says, “It’s a lasting investment in education, innovation and the agricultural community that helped shape the Hranacs’ lives.” 

The 385-acre research farm has been the site of applied agriculture research for more than 30 years. 

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The Hranac gift will help researchers and students focus on challenges specific to southern Alberta agriculture, including integrated food production systems, irrigation science and post-harvest technology. 

“Their generosity also supports the polytechnic’s commitment to hands-on, applied learning that is deeply connected to industry,” said Dr. Andrew Dunlop, associate vice-president of research. 

Born and raised in southern Alberta, the Hranacs farmed land south of Chin and Cranford throughout their lives. Joe died in 2008, and Laverna in 2022. 

Joe’s niece, Cindy Powell, said the gift reflects the values they lived by. 

“Joe and Laverna’s roots were based in farming, and along with that, they carried a love of education and family throughout their lives,” Powell said. “They believed in working hard, helping others and creating opportunities for the next generation.”