Celebration of a Century

U of S President Peter MacKinnon after the official kick-off of the University’s centennial April 3. Photo by Silas Polkinghorne

April 5, 2007

The University of Saskatchewan celebrated its 100th anniversary in style April 3 with a formal ceremony, a gift unveiling, birthday cake and events throughout the day for students, alumni, retirees and the public.

The official birthday kick-off took place in the College of Agriculture atrium and included remarks by Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison. The Mayor also passed on the city’s centennial torch, which was accepted by U of S President Peter MacKinnon on behalf of a number of businesses and organizations celebrating 100th anniversaries this year. Members of the 1907 Club include Butler Buyers Insurance, Coad's Drug Store, Early's Farm and Garden Centre, Saskatoon Business College, Saskatoon Golf & Country Club, St. Paul's Hospital, and The Saskatoon Club.

In his remarks, MacKinnon spoke about the original vision set out for the University by “the two Walters” – Walter Murray, the first U of S president, and Walter Scott, the first premier of Saskatchewan. They wanted to build an institution connected to the public and cultural life of the community, and an institution with the highest standards, he said.

“I think you only have to take a look around to know that we have honoured their ideals and goals, and continue to do so today,” MacKinnon added later. “I think they would have said, ‘well done’.”

Commenting on the significance of the University’s membership in the 1907 Club, MacKinnon said it was fitting the day’s celebration included “our peers … since we virtually grew up together.”

The event also featured the official unveiling of the U of S stamp produced by Canada Post to commemorate the anniversary (please see image on Page 2)

Following the kick-off event, a series of mini birthday parties took place across campus with live entertainment, more cake and give-aways.

As part of a speaker series to mark the centennial, Stephen Lewis, former UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, delivered an address in the Physical Activity Complex that focused on priorities for the health and well-being of children, youth and families. His presentation was entitled “Walking on the Knife’s Edge.”

Over the course of the day, other activities offered many opportunities to celebrate. Retired faculty and staff held a social in the Faculty Club that included a retrospective presentation by University Archivist Tim Hutchinson, remarks by MacKinnon and a retiree’s art exhibit.

In Convocation Hall, a celebration of excellence in teaching and learning featured a presentation by Archeology Professor Ernie Walker, a U of S Master Teacher and the University’s most recent recipient of a 3M Teaching Fellowship.

The U of S Alumni Association took advantage of the auspicious date to launch its new campus branch with a reception in Marquis Hall, and there was a party from 3-5 p.m. to celebrate the 30th birthday of Louis’ in the Memorial Union Building.

The day wrapped up with a Centennial Bash at Louis’. That party featured free concerts for students, employees and alumni by two of Saskatchewan’s rising musical acts – The Sheepdogs and Keepers of the Groove.