George Creelman 1869-1929

George Creelman 1869-1929. . , President, Ontario Agricultural College and Experimental Farm, 1904-1920, George Creelman was born in Collingwood, Ontario. He entered the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) in 1885 and graduated with one of the first degrees bestowed by the College. Creelman completed a Master's degree at Mississippi Agricultural College, returning, to Guelph in 1892 to marry James Mills' eldest daughter. After continuing his studies at Wisconsin and Cornell, Creelman returned to Ontario, where he became a popular and progressive civil servant, holding many posts in the agriculture department. In 1904, he became the president of OAC., Creelman was committed to both science and extension. He oversaw the reorganization of the College staff and curriculum and ushered in a new era of specialization and research that more accurately reflected rural Ontario's needs. Creelman championed the growth and work of the Ontario Women's institutes, where continuing education for Canadian women originated. He vocally supported the launch of provincial agricultural representatives to provide support for farmers because they served to disseminate the practical research findings of College staff, provided work for OAC graduates and promoted the educational opportunities available at the College directly in the farm community. Creelman also expanded the reputation of the College beyond Canada's borders by encouraging students and faculty to participate in international agricultural competitions and academic exchanges., Student enrolments, extension and research increased during Creelman's tenure, followed by a wave of construction, including a new men's residence (Mills Hall) and the dining hall that bears his name., Creelman Hall 1914, Generously donated by Martin Bosch, B.Sc., M.Sc.