On Remembrance Day, we pause to honour the courage of those who served, remember those who never returned home and recognize the sacrifices borne by families and communities over generations.  

In those quiet moments of gratitude and remembrance, we must also consider what has been entrusted to us as members of Memorial University. Specifically, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to be a living memorial and our shared accountability for honouring that commitment today and in the future.   

Our university is not a monument carved of stone, standing idle.  

Memorial’s origin story affirms the expectation that it will evolve to serve and create opportunities for future generations.  We live this every day through our teaching, research and service. Our students, faculty and staff strengthen communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and are helping our province and country navigate an increasingly complex world. Perhaps most importantly, we’re committed to contributing and leading in ways that are thoughtful, collaborative and courageous. 

For 100 years, Memorial has remained grounded in the promise of its founding. Today, we remember those whose sacrifice inspired the creation of our university and honour them by continuing to build an institution that serves others, expands opportunity and contributes to the common good.  

On this Remembrance Day, I will be reflecting on that responsibility, what has been entrusted to us and the enduring connection between remembrance, service and hope.