Judy Sweet believes that adapting to changing circumstances is one of the most essential skills a person can have. She knows this from experience.

After living in different Alberta communities in their 20s, Judy and her husband Garth settled in the Drayton Valley area. There, they raised their family and operated 4S Simmentals. Judy also worked at CanOxy, and Garth was involved in other companies.

After working at CanOxy for 18 years, Judy quit with the intent to retire. Retirement lasted a month, and she then began working at their business, Wellhouse Supply. “I was going to work part-time, but it soon became full-time work,” she says.

In 2001, life changed significantly for Judy when Garth passed away at 57. In 2013, she approached Lakeland College to make a gift to support livestock research initiatives in memory of Garth who was raised in the Dewberry area. Since then, Judy has supported numerous agricultural initiatives at Lakeland College. Because of her generosity, the college expanded its land base and modernized the livestock research centre, now known as the G.N Sweet Livestock Research Facility.

"I feel good about what we've done to support Lakeland and the students,” says Judy. She's also proud that her granddaughter Tori Kadylo graduated from the animal health technology program in 2020. Judy has supported many other causes and organizations.

“I love helping people. My plans have changed throughout my life, but I know I'm a very fortunate person. It makes me happy to give back,” she says.

Photos: Top-President Alice Wainwright-Stewart and board chair Adam Waterman present Judy Sweet with an honorary degree during convocation. Middle-Judy Sweet cuts the ribbon to officially open the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility in 2016. Bottom-Judy Sweet with a $500,000 presentation cheque to increase Lakeland's farm land base. Members of the Student-Managed Farm Powered by New Holland (SMF) joined her to show their appreciation.