Jack Anderson is not an Olds College alumni but he might as well be.
The 84-year-old Calgary-based businessman recently donated 100 vintage cars and trucks — valued at roughly $2.5 million — to Olds College.
The donation is the largest individual gift in Olds College’s 99-year history. Anderson was the previous record holder when he gave $1 million in cash to the college in 2007.
Jordan Cleland, vice-president of advancement for Olds College, said on Tuesday that Anderson wanted to help with the college’s 2013 centennial plans by giving 100 cars and trucks for the college’s 100 years.
“For the second time now, whether this ends up being $2 or $3 million, he has left the use of the funds up to the discretion of Olds College and its board of governors,” said Cleland. “This is quite rare. It’s flattering and humbling to the college that he trusts us.”
The impressive collection boasts vintage models such as a Corvair, Thunderbirds, the Hupmobile, Model A Ford and the Kaiser. Other classics include Jaguars, Corvettes and Rolls-Royces.
The college will auction the cars and trucks on site, and Internet-enabled, during the spring or the summer of 2013. The collection will remain with Anderson until the auction. Cleland said there have been no decisions yet on what to do with the proceeds.
“This auction will be a celebratory event of our centennial but it also gives us an opportunity to shine a very bright spotlight on this college, which we’re very proud of,” said Cleland. “We think it’s a tremendous opportunity to kind of use that spotlight to explain the academic programs and the research we have here for perspective students and to inspire future donors.”
Cleland said Anderson had made a career in industries where Olds graduates go to work, including the agriculture, construction and the oil and gas industries, which is likely why he continues to donate.
Anderson will be recognized in a gratitude ceremony at the college today at the Bell E-Learning Centre Foyer.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com