W.P. Thompson, third University President and honourary Doctor of Laws degree recipient, speaking from podium during Convocation ceremony held in Physical Education gymnasium. Elevated view from behind audience looking towards dignitaries seated on dais.

Bio/Historical Note: Walter Palmer Thompson was born 3 April 1889 near Decewsville, Ontario. He graduated from the University of Toronto with a BA (1910) and from Harvard with an MA (1912) and PhD (1914). Thompson came to the University of Saskatchewan as Professor and Head of the Biology Department in 1913. He was an important figure at the University for the next fifty years. Dr. Thompson served in a variety of administrative positions: Dean of Junior Colleges (1934); Dean of Arts and Sciences (1938); Acting President (1942); Director of Summer School (1948); and President of the University (1949). Dr. Thompson retired in 1959 and became President Emeritus. During his academic career, Thompson gained international recognition for his work as a geneticist, particularly for the development of rust resistant wheat hybrids. The W.P. Thompson Biology Building, opened in 1960, was named in his honour. Upon his retirement as President, Dr. Thompson was appointed Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Medical Care. The recommendations of this committee were an important foundation for the provincial Medicare system. In 1967 Dr. Thompson was made a Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the first to receive this award for "merit of the highest degree". He was awarded an honourary Doctor of Laws degree in 1960 by the U of S. Dr. Thompson died in Toronto in 1970.