Celebrating A Long History With Science Atlantic
On October 22, Memorial University of Newfoundland revealed a wall plaque in the lobby of their Chemistry-Physics building to celebrate 60 years of Science Atlantic.
Dr. Suzanne Dufour, Acting Associate Dean of Science, and Memorial’s Science Atlantic Institutional Representative, spoke at the ceremony. She recognized the values that we have upheld since the inception of Science Atlantic, or APICS, as it was then known:
“To advance post-secondary science education and research in Atlantic Canada by providing opportunities that foster and enrich students; supporting and inspiring researchers, educators and the broader scientific community; and using a collective voice to address important regional science issues.”
Left to right: Dr. Grant Gardner, former Chair and Treasurer of APICS, former Associate Dean of Science, and Acting President of the Memorial University Pensioner’ Association ; Zoe Rowe, biochemistry student; Dr. Suzanne Dufour, Acting Associate Dean of Science, and Memorial’s Science Atlantic Institutional Representative; Dr. Travis Fridgen, Acting Dean of Science, and Professor of Chemistry.
“Memorial University has had a long history with the organization,” Dr. Dufour continued. “Over the years, hundreds of our students and faculty have participated in Science Atlantic student conferences, receiving travel assistance and awards recognizing their research and science communication skills.
“In fact, many undergraduate students who have moved on to scientific careers had their first true experience presenting their research at one of the Science Atlantic conferences,” said Dr. Dufour.
Not in Attendance that day was Dr. Bob Hooper, former chair of the Science Atlantic Biology Committee , who sent his regards along with these touching words:
“I congratulate the organization on their diamond jubilee. The role they play in fostering communication and cooperation between the Atlantic universities is invaluable. I especially honour the annual undergraduate conferences, which provide our province’s students with an unique bridge to the outside scientific world. The MUN students that I took to the Science Atlantic conferences, were always captivated by the tremendous range of research and opportunities in Atlantic Canada. Best wishes for many more successful anniversaries.”