University of Lethbridge landmark

Since its inception, the University of Lethbridge has helped shape the community into what it is now. The university brought a new social dynamic, opportunities, aspirations and a number of residents and has spurred urban and economic growth.

In 1967, the U of L became the third university in Alberta, opening its doors to 650 students in the faculties of Education, and Arts and Science. It grew fast in the subsequent years, expanding to thousands of students and initiating new programs — Fine Arts, Management, Music and more.

In the 1990s, the matured programs began offering graduate degrees and opened branches in Edmonton and Calgary, thus establishing the “destination” model. Fifty years later, the U of L is a leading undergraduate university that promotes excellence through teaching, research and innovation.

The Lethbridge arts and culture scene has been profoundly influenced by the university. The fine arts collection, initiated with the acquisition of Expo ’67’s Moses sculpture, grew through strategic acquisitions and donations. Today the U of L fine arts collection comprises over 13,000 cultural objects, including works by Picasso, Matisse and Warhol. Considered the richest university art collection in Canada, it offers unique art experiences not only to the students, but to the whole community. Similarly, the university’s music conservatory and theatre have built a strong tradition of community outreach with courses, concerts and specialized art expertise.

The university has left a strong imprint on the Lethbridge map. It opened the west side of Lethbridge to urban development and created a unique coulee-view campus. Anchored by Arthur Erickson’s University Hall, the campus’s skyline dominates the river canyon and defines the area’s character. In its turn, the campus attracted residential growth, turning the west side into the fastest-growing housing development of today.

On Wednesday from 2–3 p.m., Wednesdays at the Galt presents “University of Lethbridge: 50 Years in 50 Minutes.” Join Archivist Mike Perry for a fascinating look at the history of the University of Lethbridge as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Admission fees apply and includes exhibit access.

Admission is free to Galt Museum annual pass holders.

Your old photos, documents, and artifacts might have historical value. Please contact Galt Museum & Archives for advice before destroying them.