Emmett M. Hall, University Chancellor, making presentation of an honourary Doctor of Laws degree to Harry E. Gunning at Convocation held at Centennial Auditorium. Iain MacLean, University Secretary, prepares to hood recipient

Bio/Historical Note: Harry Emmet Gunning (1916-2002) was a Canadian scientist and administrator. Gunning attended the University of Toronto, and there he earned three degrees in physical chemistry; a BA (Honours), an MA, and a PhD. He finished his schooling in 1942, when he earned his PhD. and then did post-doctoral studies at Harvard. Gunning later returned to Canada and became a research chemist in Dr. Edgar Steacie's laboratory in Ottawa. He also did research for the National Research council at the time. In 1946, he became a professor at the University of Rochester and then at the Illinois Institute of Technology. In 1957 Gunning returned to Canada again and became Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Alberta. In the next ten years, Gunning's work achieved the University's chemistry department international recognition and it became a rapidly evolving center for chemical studies. In 1973 a new wing was added to the Chemistry building to accommodate for the rapid growth of the department under Gunning's supervision. From 1974-1979 he was the President as well. In 1979 Gunning was made an Officer of the Order of Canada as a "scientist and educator, who has achieved an international reputation for chemical research". Gunning died in Edmonton in 2002.