In 2019, the University of Prince Edward Island is marking a major milestone, celebrating 50 years of serving as a leader in education and research.
We hope to see alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends attend our events and take part in celebrating UPEI at 50!
In 2019, the University of Prince Edward Island is marking a major milestone, celebrating 50 years of serving as a leader in education and research.
By the 1960s, the Prince Edward Island government began to acknowledge a serious shortage of educated and skilled workers and began a critical study of its post-secondary education institutions, Prince of Wales College (PWC) and Saint Dunstan’s University (SDU). The government, under the leadership of Premier Alex B. Campbell, concluded that forming a provincial university was the desired model for future students. The PEI Legislature passed the University Act in 1969, incorporating the University of Prince Edward Island. In May 1969, the last classes graduated from PWC and SDU, and the institutions were transformed into UPEI, which opened in September that same year.
We are Panther-proud to celebrate fifty years of accomplishment in a variety of ways. We hope to see alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends attend our events and take part in celebrating UPEI at 50!
Events and Projects
Celebrating the historical roots of higher education on Prince
Edward Island and its future.
Speakers from all eight faculties will tell their stories of how UPEI changed their lives. Click for the schedule!
"50 Years, 50 Voices"
50 video vignettes produced by Robertson Library staff, highlighting individual experiences and memories of UPEI.
Commemorative Magazine
A Fall/Winter 2019 edition highlighting the last 50 years and showcasing 50th Anniversary celebrations.
50th Anniversary Yearbook
The UPEI Student Union and UPEI will produce a special edition of the yearbook, looking back at classes from 1969 to today.
Contact alumni@upei.ca for a complimentary copy.
Reunion Weekend 2019
From July 24–27, UPEI held a variety of special and memorable receptions, ceremonies, and class milestone reunion gatherings.
Photos will be available soon, so please check back later.
Homecoming 2019
From September 25–28, Homecoming will include exciting events, including a Homecoming Alumni Concert.
See the complete schedule at upei.ca/homecoming.
Stay Connected
Featured Events
Franklin Pigot Lectures
The Robertson Library presents lectures to celebrate the roots of higher education on Prince Edward Island and its future.
Reunion Weekend 2019
2019 was a very special reunion year as UPEI celebrates it's 50th anniversary! Events took place from July 24–27 and brought many alumni back to UPEI.
Homecoming Concert
Homecoming 2019 (September 25–28) will include exciting events, including a Homecoming Alumni Concert featuring Lennie Gallant, Meaghan Blanchard, Rachel Beck and The Rude Mechanicals. Get tickets now!
The Robertson Library has created a collection of “UPEI at 50” digital exhibits, including UPEI student newspapers, historical photos, and other UPEI artifacts. Visit 50.library.upei.ca today for more information and to browse the exhibits.