Earlier this month, Russell Brewing Company presented the KPU Foundation with proceeds from the sale of John Mitchell Signature Cascadian Dark Ale, a Russell beer brewed in collaboration with faculty, students and alum from KPU’s brewing program. The $7,000 will go to the John Mitchell Legacy Endowed Scholarship, which benefits brewing students at KPU.

The scholarship honours the late John Mitchell, who founded Canada’s first craft brewery, Horseshoe Bay Brewing, in 1982. Since then, the Canadian craft beer industry has founded over 1,000 craft breweries.

“KPU is grateful for the work of Russell Brewing and the John Mitchell Foundation by partnering with the university to make a positive difference in the lives of our students,” said Steve Lewarne, executive director of KPU’s Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs.

“John Mitchell had the opportunity to visit the KPU Brew Lab on a number of occasions. He loved meeting the students, and was thrilled that part of his legacy would be linked to brewing education and teaching the next generation of craft beerprofessionals,” said Ohler.

Russell Brewing was honoured to be chosen to brew John Mitchell’s signature Cascadian Dark Ale, adds Jimmy Darbyshire, Russell’s director of marketing.

“As one of the first 10 breweries in B.C., we understand the huge impact John had on this industry that he loved so dearly. To be able to pay homage to such a pioneer is nothing short of extraordinary. The support we received from breweries throughout B.C. is a testament to the work John did during his career,” said Darbyshire.

Since its inception in 2019, the $1,000 annual scholarship is available to students enrolled in KPU’s brewing and brewery operations diploma at the university’s Langley campus, according to the article in AldergroveStar. 

It is the only program of its kind in B.C. and KPU was the first Canadian institution recognized by the Master Brewers Association of the Americas for a standard of excellence in brewing education. In October, KPU brews landed three medals at the 2022 Canada Beer Cup.

“KPU students learn the science of brewing beer and how to apply that knowledge to build careers in the brewingindustry,” said Brett Favaro, dean of the Faculty of Science and Horticulture.

“This is a great example – students working with industry to make great beer that also raises funds for a scholarship that will help others on their educational journey.”