Students, staff, alumni, retirees, and members of the community gathered in the quadrangle of the Prince of Wales Campus to kick-off Holland College’s 50^th anniversary celebrations today.

In addition to music, food provided by The Culinary Institute of Canada, and games, the day included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque that will be installed in the Weymouth Street entryway to the Charlottetown Centre.

Holland College president Dr. Sandy MacDonald welcomed students, staff, retirees, the college’s neighbours, and the general public to the event.

“This year we celebrate 50 years of being part of the Island community, and we are delighted to welcome the community to celebrate with us,” he said.

Reflecting on the college’s growth over the last five decades, Dr. MacDonald noted that some things have remained the same.

“Our alumni fondly remember the friendships they made, the confidence they gained, and the opportunity to explore their personal and academic interests. Today, we are still committed to providing our students with an extraordinary experience during their time at Holland College. We have developed supports and strategies that ensure that each student has the best possible opportunity for success,” he said.

The college has several activities planned for the next year as part of the anniversary celebrations, including a lecture series, a travelling display, a series of videos, band concerts, and the establishment of an endowment fund. For more information about the college’s anniversary celebrations, visit www.hollandcollege.com/50years/. 

In this picture: Premier Dennis King, president Dr. Sandy MacDonald, founding president Dr. Don Glendenning, The Honourable Antoinette Perry, and student union president Connor Moerike unveil the plaque commemorating Holland College’s fiftieth anniversary.