The Beatles performed for the last time in London, England, Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon, the Vietnam War came to an end and the first ever ATM was installed. It was the year you graduated from the University of Waterloo: 1969.
Discover campus circa 1969
A lot has changed on campus since you were a student. See what was happening in select buildings during this time.
Buildings marked in yellow were built before 1969
Buildings marked in grey were built after 1969
Physical Activities Complex (PAC)
The PAC opened in 1969, which has allowed UWaterloo athletes to train, practice and hold tournaments on campus.
Dana Porter Library
In mid-March 1969, a sit-in was organized by students in the Dana Porter library. Their main concern was inadequate spending for the library in the University’s budget. This paved the way for future expansion projects, with the Dana Porter library now standing 10 stories high.
South Campus Hall (SCH)
After fall convocation in 1969, Gerald Hagey received a plaque from the Historical Branch of the Ontario government, marking the University as a historic site. This plaque still stands today in front of SCH.
Did you know...
The University of Waterloo’s enrolment surpassed 10,000 students for the first time in fall 1969.
Remember when...
A Waterloo legend, told by alumni
Take a step back another year to when student protestors announced something drastic. In a demonstration on Waterloo’s campus to show the horrors of the Vietnam War, they promised to burn a dog with napalm. When crowds formed in November 1968, the protest took a relieving turn. Listen to the podcast to hear the full story.
Botanical name: Acer plantanoides 'Crimson King' Common name: Crimson King Maple Dedication: Class of 1969. This tree was planted by the National Alumni Council in recognition of a member of this class whose outstanding leadership has played a vital role in the development of University of Waterloo alumni activities - Michael F. Garvey FCA, B.A. '69
See how your legacy has grown
To honour your time at the University, your class donated a tree to our campus. Just like your tree, your role in Waterloo’s history is still felt today.
Because of your class, and the culture you fostered as students, our campus community has grown and flourished. On behalf of current and future students, thank you for the role you played in Waterloo’s legacy.
Want to share your story?
As you celebrate your milestone anniversary, share your memories from campus. Your story could be featured in an alumni publication!
Presented by TD Insurance Meloche Monnex
All archival photos courtesy of the University of Waterloo Library. Special Collections & Archives, Kitchener-Waterloo Record Photographic Negative Collection and University of Waterloo Archives, Graphic Services fonds