Graduate Profiles- Michael McClellan ’77

Have you often wondered where graduates end up after they finish at the School of Horticulture? Or curious what career options are available in the industry? In our monthly series we’ll highlight a different graduate every month to showcase the diversity. We’ll be sharing the full inside look here on our website!

Say Hello to Michael McClellan, class of 1977!

Q: Where do you currently work and what position do you hold?

A: I retired from the City of Toronto in 2017 but run a small Greenhouse Business and I’m President of the Alumni Association Foundation Board.

“As a member of the Foundation Board, I’m interested in helping with Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards that have been created to assist undergraduate and postgraduate students of The Niagara Parks School of Horticulture.  As a Board…, Our Intent is to serve as a receptacle for financial donations or bequests received from Alumni and others for Projects such as the Recognition Garden.“

Q: How would you describe your experience entering the industry after graduation?

A: One Word… Unprepared.   Thankfully Things have changed at the School.

Q: What challenges have you faced and overcome in your career after graduation?

A: Understanding that everyone came from a multitude of backgrounds and beliefs.  Just because we don’t agree on everything doesn’t mean we can’t get along.  Learn from each other…

Q: What is a fond memory from your days at the gardens? 

A: I enjoyed Our Class Plant Walks after Supper a day or two before a Plant Identification Test.

Thank you Michael for sharing your experience with us! It is great to hear from alumni from all stages in their careers!

If you would like to be featured here and inspire the next generation make sure to complete our graduate survey here: https://forms.gle/pt2MPgJsALYdf1b3A.