Dr. Alastair Summerlee, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guelph quoted Nelson Mandela:“I have walked that long road to freedom. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill. One only finds that there are many more hills to climb…But I can rest only for a moment. I dare not linger for my long walk is not yet ended.” He asked the participants to “look around at the glorious vista that surrounds you which is you. Take a moment to reflect on what you have accomplished and what you still strive to do.”  He encouraged participants to stand up, to walk and to climb this next hill – that of greater sustainability for the planet.

Co-operators Group President and CEO Kathy Bardswick, maintained the theme in her final address to the group. She emphasized the importance of bringing the student’s great ideas to fruition. Referring to the Impact! Fund she said, “there is assistance for you, and some of those funds might serve as gathering points along the way, but only you will do the heavy lifting.” She encouraged the students to take the partners up on their offers of post-conference support adding “they are offered in a genuine spirit of commitment and collaboration”. On a final note she told the participants: “I want to share with you how privileged we are to have experienced you. We want to continue to experience you. And the world needs to continue to experience you.”