Temple Grandin Visits Ontario, Oregon for Special Events at Treasure Valley Community College
By Tracy Christopher on Thursday, June 5th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
ONTARIO- Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC) was honored to host internationally renowned animal behaviorist and autism advocate Dr. Temple Grandin for a series of highly anticipated events on May 27, 2025. Recently named one of USA Today’s 2025 Women of the Year, Dr. Grandin’s visit brought together students, educators, and community members for a powerful day of learning and inspiration.
Dr. Grandin’s schedule included a morning presentation and Q&A session for TVCC students and high school students from across the region, followed by an evening community lecture and book signing held at the Meyer McLean Performing Arts Theater. Known for her groundbreaking work in animal science and autism awareness, Grandin spoke on effective livestock handling—an area in which she has become the world’s leading expert over her five-decade career.
Elgin High School Agriculture Advisor Daniel Bolen brought students to the morning session. He noted that his Animal Science students were already familiar with Dr. Grandin’s work through classroom study and viewing the award-winning HBO film Temple Grandin.
“They were very excited to get to hear her speak in person,” said Bolen. “They learned a lot from the experience. Her visit brought real-world relevance to what we cover in class.”
Bolen added that Dr. Grandin’s impact on modern livestock handling cannot be overstated. “Her research has completely changed how livestock are handled across the world—making it safer, more humane, and more efficient.”
Dr. Grandin’s books, including Different Kinds of Minds, Visual Thinking, and Temple Grandin’s Guide to Working with Farm Animals, continue to influence professionals in agriculture, education, and beyond. Her visit to Ontario served as a unique opportunity for the local community to engage directly with a living pioneer in both science and advocacy.
TVCC’s initiative to bring Dr. Grandin to Ontario reflects the college’s commitment to creating meaningful educational experiences and connecting students with leaders who shape the world.
