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The University of New Brunswick in Saint John has dedicated a linden tree in the campus quad to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Science Atlantic.

The linden tree is located by Irving Hall, which houses the faculty of science, applied science and engineering. The age of the tree is estimated to be approximately 60 years old – making it the perfect choice to commemorate Science Atlantic’s diamond anniversary.

The Atlantic Provinces Inter-University Committee on the Sciences, which grew into Science Atlantic, was formed in 1962 to encourage collaboration across universities and government in the Atlantic provinces. Over the past six decades, the organization has focused on opportunities for students, experiential education and research excellence. Science Atlantic hosts annual conferences for students to network, practice presentation skills and learn about academic opportunities.

In addition to providing student support, Science Atlantic member institutions collaborate to address relevant issues in the region, such as their work ensuring equitable distribution of national research funding to Atlantic Canada.

“Science Atlantic is the only regional, cross-disciplinary, post-secondary science network in Canada, it’s network enhances not only students’ academic goals but fosters’ connections between scientists in our region,” says Caroline Brunelle, UNB Saint John’s Science Atlantic psychology representative.

A small group of invited guests were on hand to make the dedication, including students who have been involved with Science Atlantic conferences and events.

“I had such a great experience at this conference, as I not only got to present my own research, but also got to learn about all the exciting research that my fellow students are completing at other institutions in the Atlantic provinces,” says Michaela Ritchie, a master’s student at UNB Saint John and a recipient of a 2021 Science Atlantic Undergraduate Research Award.

UNB’s Fredericton campus also dedicated a tree to mark the anniversary. Acorns from the red oak tree, also aged 60, have been gathered and will be grown in the faculty of forestry and environmental management’s greenhouse in the winter.

“I am so appreciative of Science Atlantic for creating a space to enhance communication between students and faculty,” says Allyson Lamont, a master’s student at UNB Saint John and a recipient of a 2021 Science Atlantic Undergraduate Research Award.

Media contact: Kelsey Pye

Photo: Dr. Michael Van Zyll de Jong, dean of the faculty of science, applied science and engineering at UNB, planting a sign marking Science Atlantic’s 60th anniversary. Credit: Laura Devlin.