A short history of the GRI
Since it was founded in 1982 the Gorsebrook Research Institute (GRI) has established a reputation as a hub for the interdisciplinary study of Atlantic Canada. The GRI has evolved from providing research assistance to the Saint Mary’s University (SMU) faculty members and to promoting interdisciplinary and interuniversity collaborations and the community.
The story of the GRI begins with the creation of the multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary fields of Canadian Studies to promote regional understanding in academia, most notably in the foundation of the University of New Brunswick's academic journal Acadiensis in 1971. During the same time, Saint Mary’s University transitioned from a Jesuit-run Catholic boys' college to a regional pioneer in innovative interdisciplinary programs. These efforts resulted in a rapid growth of its student and faculty population and to the creation of the Atlantic Canada Studies (ACST) program in 1975. The success of this interdisciplinary undergraduate program resulted in a strong representation of regionally focused scholars at various departments at Saint Mary’s University.
Out of this success, in 1982, the Gorsebrook Research Institute was founded by the SMU faculty members Drs. Ken MacKinnon (English), Donald Higgins (Political Science) and Colin Howell (History) as the research arm of the MA program of Saint Mary's University's Atlantic Canada Studies program. From its modest beginnings in a single office in the McNally Building, and later in the basement of the Oaks, the GRI is, since 2006, located at the Inglis Street Research House (5960 Inglis Street). The GRI's interdisciplinary focus has always been a strength. Its research activities have evolved over time in response to social, political, and academic development. Initially, the GRI research activities focused on the strategic objectives of the ACST program including political economy, history, and the environment. Many early publications were concerned with the fisheries, and to a lesser extent, oil, gas, forestry, and rural economies. The 1990s saw a shift towards gender, ethnicity, and community.
The COVID-19 Pandemic changed our ways of communicating and working together and it has given us the opportunity to re-consider how we engage with a wide range of communities. Today we offer well-equipped offices, an active conference and publication program and support to unique projects and researchers through a diverse range of research and funding opportunities. We also provide annual grants for SMU faculty members, or researchers working under the supervision of SMU faculty members, and to community groups, who undertake projects designed to improve our region.