Kirk gives back to alma matter

Wayne Kirk (Agribusiness, Class of '03) has been on the college’s Alumni board since February of 2015 after becoming aware of the Alumni Association through his interaction with the college as Cargill Lead Recruiter for Assiniboine graduates.

Born and raised in Hamiota, Kirk attended three years at the University of Regina prior to attending Assiniboine.

“Both of my older brothers took the Agribusiness program and went on to land really good jobs,” says Kirk, “After speaking with them about the courses within the program, and then landing a summer job with Cargill, I decided to apply to ACC.”

After receiving his diploma in 2003, Kirk worked in the agricultural industry with other companies before beginning his career with Cargill nine years ago as a sales representative.

“I work one-on-one with farm customers to support them in growing the best crop they can,” says Kirk, “this includes providing them with the proper seed, fertilizer and chemical that will most benefit their individual operations.”

“I believe that ACC provided me with the basic agronomic and industry knowledge that gave me confidence and a great start to be successful in my career. Being part of the board is an exciting opportunity for me to give back to the college through fundraising and increasing the brand recognition of the college,” says Kirk.

Along with his new leadership role on the board, he is also currently the chairperson of the Alumni board’s Cougars Classic golf tournament committee and is happy to report that this past June’s event netted approximately $17,000. The committee also helped trigger another $20,000 in athletic sponsorships. This combined $37,000 total will go 100 per cent towards student athlete awards.

“I stay connected to the college because it provided me with the tools to begin my career,” says Kirk, “many of my lifelong friends are people that I met while at ACC and I feel a real strong connection to the college because of those relationships I built while I was a student, and the career that I have built because of the education I received there.”

Kirk’s goals as president are to grow a highly-engaged Alumni team that hosts successful events that span the broader community. He’s excited for the opportunities to interact with other proud alumni who share his enthusiasm in helping Assiniboine grow.

When asked to give his top three reasons for other ACC alumni to be involved and stay connected, he responds, “to share your pride of being an ACC alumni with others who feel the same. To be a part of the exciting future at ACC and its North Hill Campus plans. And it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself.”