The First World War had a profound impact on the Dominion of Newfoundland, which still resonates in our province today.

One outcome from the war that positively changed Newfoundland and Labrador was the establishment of Memorial University College in 1925. The college was established as a living memorial to those who fought and died so “ . . . that in freedom of learning their cause and sacrifice may not be forgotten.”

This unique origin is reflected through physical memorials such as the Memorial Wall in the Arts and Administration building, or the Memorial Tower on the St. John’s campus. And Memorial’s role is not only to remember but to investigate, study and debate. The WW100 program was established in 2014 to assist and empower faculty, staff and students to accomplish this goal.

Funding available

The WW100 program has limited funding available for projects related to the First World War. Projects can be under any topic or discipline. Since its launch, more than 60 projects have been funded by the program. Applications have been approved from many faculties and units, including arts, education, nursing, medicine, Grenfell Campus, the Marine Institute and others.

Faculty, staff and students have been awarded travel grants and prominent authorities on the war have had their travel supported to attend Memorial University symposia and lectures. Several important symposia have been held on such topics as Newfoundland nurses, social changes caused by the war and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Public lectures and debates have been held to examine war. Artistic projects have also been funded, including musical and theatrical performances. The WW100 Steering Committee, which reviews all applications, encourages anyone with an interest in the First World War to consider submitting an application.

Sept. 26 deadline

“We have specifically designed the funding program to have minimal administrative burden on the applicant while still maintaining high standards of due diligence,” said Dr. Lucian Ashworth, chair of the WW100 Steering Committee. “We are very pleased with the projects to date, most of which have been academic in nature. If anyone has a suitable idea, I suggest they speak with a committee member or our event planner.”

Applications for grants less than $2,500 can be made at any time of the year. Applications for grants greater than $2,500, can only be made once each semester. The deadline for the fall 2016 semester is Monday, Sept. 26. For more information on the program or to obtain the applicant’s guide, please visit here or contact Douglas Ballam.