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Colloquium in Honour of George Hunter
University of Alberta Oborowski Degner Seminar Hall
Wednesday October 7, 2026 from 9 - 11 AM
How did one scientist help shape the University of Alberta—and why does his story still matter today?
Join University of Alberta College of Health Sciences Dean Brenda Hemmelgarn, distinguished researchers, historian Sarah Carter, and George Hunter's grandchildren Janie and Robert Brown for a public colloquium exploring scientific discovery, academic freedom, and the lasting impact of one of the university's pioneering scholars.
During the event, George Hunter's family will formally donate documents from his estate to the University of Alberta Archives, ensuring that his story and contributions will be preserved for future generations.
Who should attend?
This free public event will appeal to alumni, students, researchers, healthcare professionals, historians, and anyone interested in cancer research, biomedical science, the University of Alberta, or academic freedom.
Reception
A reception following the talks will provide an opportunity to meet the speakers and other attendees.
Event Program
Janie Brown, Executive Director of the Callanish Society, and Robert Brown, President of Chesterman Properties, will present Lessons from our grandfather, George Hunter, second Chair of the Department of Biochemistry: Family, Legacy and Impact.
Inspired by her grandfather's legacy and her own experience in oncology nursing, Janie founded the Callanish Society, which provides support for people living with advanced cancer. She co-produced the documentary I'm Still Here: Young Adults Living Life with Recurrent Cancer and is the author of the bestselling book Radical Acts of Love: Twenty Conversations to Inspire Hope at the End of Life.
In both his native Scotland and his home of 38 years in Canada, Robert has sought to blend pragmatic business skills with community and mission-focussed objectives. In the last 20 years this has focussed on the development of community owned real estate culminating in founding and running Catalyst Community Developments Society and its creation of 1,200 affordable rental homes in BC.
A series of short presentations will showcase the University's current strengths in health research, highlighting how today's discoveries build on the scientific foundations that George Hunter helped establish a century ago.
Speakers include historian Sarah Carter, Chair of the Department of Oncology Frank Wuest, Women and Children's Health Research Institute Executive Director Sandra Davidge.
Elected to the Royal Society of Canada in 1933, George Hunter helped establish the University of Alberta as a centre of excellence in biochemistry. His research, teaching, and leadership laid foundations that continue to influence scientific discovery today.