Loyal Donor John Dickson: Giving Back to the Communities That Shaped Him
From October 21 to 25, the University of Guelph proudly celebrates Loyal Donor Appreciation Week. This special occasion honours the profound impact our dedicated community of loyal donors has made on the University. Today, we are thrilled to share the story of College of Arts alum John Dickson.
About John
John Dickson graduated from the University of Guelph in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in History (with memorable courses in Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, and Geomorphology) and he has been a steadfast supporter of the University for over 20 years.
For John, each visit to the U of G is a blend of nostalgia and discovery. He enjoys exploring the Theatre Archives in the Library’s basement, where he has studied William Hutt’s memorabilia and learned about Guelph's famous musician Edward Johnson and his illustrious career. He has also enjoyed visits to the Macdonald Stewart Gallery (now the Art Gallery of Guelph), noon-hour concerts, and the Arboretum.
It isn’t just the arts that connect John to the University. One of his most enriching experiences came unexpectedly while skiing in Algonquin Park where he met a U of G researcher studying the Canada Jays. The encounter reminded him of the deep intellectual curiosity fostered by the University and how the spirit of discovery connects all areas of study, from the performing arts to environmental science.
Why John Gives to the University of Guelph
John’s role as a loyal donor isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about giving back to the communities that have shaped him. “I appreciate being able to direct my contributions to areas of interest to me,” he says. He supports nature programs, the performing arts, creative writing, and the Library, ensuring these fields thrive and are recognized for their value. “My hope is that my support for these programs signals my appreciation of their importance. I commend the efforts of the faculty, staff, and students involved in these pursuits,” he says.
Memorable Moments at U of G
Reflecting on his long-standing connection with the University of Guelph, John feels a sense of fulfillment. One of his most special memories as a student was a sunny walk to class in the summer of 1971, where music department students were performing a rousing version of Dvorak’s New World Symphony in the central campus area, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
He also recalls a memorable field trip with Professor Eiju Yatsu who, in his Geomorphology course, casually recalled riding his motorcycle through the Sahara Desert while studying landforms. Part-time jobs in Guelph were always outdoors and led to a physically active lifestyle that included a return to U of G for an alumnus day tug-of-war event on his 56th birthday.
Who knew that John's future would include decades of active volunteering, performing and leadership/support roles with the Owen Sound City Band and the Georgian Bay Symphony, the Family Y, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists, the Library, Museums and the Tom Thomson Art Gallery.
These memories and experiences have shaped John’s connection to U of G. With each step, John’s bond with the University grows stronger, knowing that his giving helps shape its future, just as the University continues to shape his own.