This year, the University of Alberta’s Department of Medicine celebrates 100 years of innovation, education and compassionate care.
Though medical classes at the university began as early as 1913, students initially had to complete their fourth and fifth years of clinical training in Toronto or Montreal. In 1924, the Department of Medicine was officially established, allowing the university to offer full clinical training and provide groundbreaking medical education in Western Canada.
On Nov. 1, the department’s centennial brought together generations of faculty, staff, alumni and students to honour its legacy. Festivities began with the Day of Discovery, which featured presentations, panels and interactive exhibits, inviting attendees to explore the department’s milestones and ongoing contributions to healthcare. Former department chairs joined faculty and students in reflecting on the department’s 20th-century roots and its leadership today in areas like diabetes research and healthcare equity.
The celebration culminated with a black-tie gala at the Edmonton Convention Centre, where distinguished guests, including university leaders, emeritus faculty, former chairs, residents, students and alumni, gathered to pay tribute to the department’s accomplishments and look to the future. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a certificate of recognition by Chancellor Somji on behalf of the Mayor of Edmonton, underscoring the department’s profound impact on the community.
Explore the photos below to relive an extraordinary evening filled with pride, camaraderie and shared excitement for the next 100 years of the department of medicine.
