News

Launching our third century: McGill University celebrates 200 years

Celebrating past achievements, looking towards the future
Published: 31 March 2021

Today marks McGill University’s 200th anniversary. As one of Canada’s first universities to reach this significant milestone, McGill will commemorate this historic occasion with a special broadcast Celebrate 200: Launching Our 3rd Century, along with a series of signature 200th anniversary events and activities planned for this bicentennial year.

“Over the last two centuries, the people of McGill have shaped history. We have faced challenges, seized opportunities, and persevered to make the world a better place,” says Ram Panda, Chair of McGill's Board of Governors. “​Today, our community embodies that same spirit.”

“As we embark on our third century, McGill’s greatest strength will continue to be its people – people who, through their pursuit of knowledge, their creativity, and their commitment, will shape the future of our University and our world,” says Suzanne Fortier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. “Our University is a magnet for global and local talent who will keep addressing the challenges and complexities of our societies.”

Commencing today, the first conference in the series, A Road Map for Greater Food Security and Autonomy, will focus on how McGill and its community partners are taking on some of the most pressing issues facing society, and the role McGill as well as other higher education institutions can play.

Throughout McGill’s anniversary year, various Bicentennial celebrations will highlight the many contributions McGillians have made and the positive impact they have had on lives around the world.


About McGill University

Celebrating 200 years of discovery and learning, McGill University ranks as one of the top universities in Canada and the world. McGill’s mission is to create and share knowledge by offering the best possible education, by carrying out research and scholarly activities judged to be excellent by the highest international standards, and by providing service to society. These activities span three campuses, 11 faculties, 13 professional schools, and some 300 programs of study. Every year, McGill welcomes over 40,000 students, attracting more than 30% from 150-plus countries, and has the highest percentage of PhD students of any Canadian research university. Nearly 60% of its student population speaks French.

Back to top