Marking a milestone

The 50th anniversary graduating class of the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University filled the seats at the institute’s 2014 graduation ceremony on Friday, June 13th

Monday, June 16, 2014

The scene was quite a different sight than that of the very first graduating class in 1968, at the College of Fisheries, Navigation, Marine Engineering and Electronics at the former Parade Street campus of Memorial University College.

Students were awarded with Technical Certificates, Diplomas of Technology, Advanced Diplomas and Post-Graduate Certificates in the areas of ocean technology, marine transportation, maritime studies, marine environment, food and aquaculture.

The first graduating class of the Marine Institute’s (MI) Ocean Mapping Program also received their diplomas at the ceremony and guests were provided a student address by David Wise, a graduate from the program.

The ceremony was presided over by Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute); Tony Cornect, parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Advanced Education and Skills and MHA for Port au Port; and emcee Angie Clarke, director, Student Affairs, Marine Institute.

Over the past 50 years, MI has evolved and expanded into one of the most respected centres of learning and applied research in the world for the ocean and marine sectors. The institute’s history began in 1964, when Premier Dr. Joseph R. Smallwood looked at the Newfoundland fishery and the marine transportation sector and asked how he could make this industry better for those who work on the ocean.

Premier Smallwood established the College of Fisheries to provide the province a specialized place of teaching and learning for fisheries training and development and marine transportation.

MI has grown to be a jewel in Memorial University’s crown. Graduates of the institute are a product of Newfoundland and Labrador’s rich culture and the significant contribution of MI to Memorial’s national and international reputation.

“Marine Institute graduates span across the globe. We are honoured to have such distinguished individuals representing our institute throughout industry,” said Blackwood. “Our greatest accomplishment is our graduates and I am proud to have been a part of the celebration of the institute’s 50th anniversary graduating class.”