Exciting plans are underway for a new time capsule to be placed in the Health and Social Innovation Centre (HSIC) at UNB’s Saint John campus. This initiative was inspired by the recent discovery of a 1968 time capsule during the demolition of the Ward Chipman Library. It offered a glimpse into the university’s history and inspired a desire to capture and preserve today’s accomplishments for future generations.
The original capsule made out of copper contained a variety of artifacts: a university calendar from 1967-1968, remarks by UNB’s then-president Colin B. Mackay during the cornerstone ceremony for the Ward Chipman Library, a copy of The Evening Times-Globe dated May 15, 1968, photographs, students and faculty lists, coins, and reports predating 1968. These items serve as a meaningful connection to the early days of UNB Saint John.
“It’s really important from all sorts of perspectives that we have an understanding of our past. We in universities build on the research of others, build on the teachings of others, and the documentary evidence that supports the memories that people have—We’ll look forward to digitizing the documents included in this time capsule to make sure that members of the university community and students and researchers of all types will have access to what we have discovered,” said Lesley Balcom, Dean of Libraries.
Inspired by this discovery, UNB’s provost and vice-president academic, Dr. Petra Hauf, has initiated plans for a new time capsule for the Integrated Health Initiative (IHI) within the HSIC. Conversations are already taking place about what will go into this capsule.
While its exact location is yet to be set, the time capsule will be displayed—sealed and visible—for public viewing in HSIC after completion. Students are encouraged to contribute ideas for itscontent. Although there are some limitations (such as size and technology), suggestions can be sent to hcampbel@unb.ca.
Heather Campbell, director of the Integrated Health Initiative, expressed her enthusiasm: “The new time capsule will be a unique opportunity to leave a legacy for future UNB students, faculty, and staff. It will be a perfect way for today’s achievements to be remembered for generations to come.”
