With the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) turning 30, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Margaret Bathy, one of the early graduates who was there from the very start. She was among the first to graduate from UNBC and was also part of the initial team at Over the Edge, the university’s student newspaper.
We met by chance at a local DIY air filter workshop. Curious about her stories, I caught up with her later to chat about what UNBC was like in its early days.
The Story Behind “Over the Edge”
The name “Over the Edge” for the student newspaper has an interesting backstory. During the construction of University Way, there were incidents where earth from the hillside slid down onto the road. This led to jokes about how much of the hill would eventually come down, with some even quipping that the university might slide down to share the College of New Caledonia (CNC) campus.
The potential for the university to go “over the edge” of the embankment inspired the newspaper’s name. It was chosen to suggest that the content might push boundaries, rather than literally referring to the university’s location.
Starting a Newspaper from Scratch
Back in the early ’90s, the campus scene was quite different. Classes were held at Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George on Fir St. at 17th Ave., adjacent to what is now called “Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park,” because the main campus wasn’t ready yet.
A small group of students contributed to the newspaper. Margaret remembers working closely with two in particular: the editor, Myron Gordon, and Heather Sapergia. All three were mature students who had been working and raising families before coming to UNBC.
“We were having fun,” Margaret recalled, “mostly writing satire and whatever else we could come up with.”
The first issue of Over the Edge was actually published in 1993, distributed to students attending classes at the temporary location. Vol 1 #2 followed on November 22, 1993. However, when the Cranbrook Hill campus officially opened, the October 17, 1994 issue was labeled “Vol. 1 Issue 1,” as if the earlier editions hadn’t existed.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this history, Margaret took her early copies of “Over the Edge” to the newspaper office beside the UNBC Winter Garden, ensuring that the current staff were aware of the paper’s origins.
Tea with the Queen
One of Margaret’s standout memories was attending a tea party with Queen Elizabeth II during UNBC’s official opening ceremonies. Despite strict protocols, she and her fellow students managed to get a group photo with the Queen—a keepsake she cherishes.
UNBC’s Evolution
When asked about how UNBC has evolved, Margaret mentioned the expansion of campus facilities, especially the Charles Jago Northern Sport Centre. “It’s made a big difference,” she noted, pointing out how it’s become a hub for both students and the local community.
University-Community Connection
Contrary to perceptions of a disconnect between the university and the town, Margaret sees strong connections. While she acknowledges that transportation can be challenging for students living in dorms without their own vehicles, she emphasizes the numerous ways students engage with the Prince George community and vice versa.
Students frequently venture off-campus for shopping, dining, and recreation. Many, including two of Margaret’s grandchildren, live and work off-campus. Conversely, Prince George residents often visit UNBC for events at the Canfor Theatre, receptions, plant sales, to enjoy the David Douglas Society gardens, use the Northern Sport Centre facilities, or watch UNBC sports teams compete.
Looking Back and Ahead
Chatting with Margaret felt like stepping back in time. Her stories painted a picture of UNBC’s early days, filled with enthusiasm, challenges, and a tight-knit community spirit. As the university celebrates its 30th anniversary, her experiences remind us of its roots and the people who helped build it.
UNBC has come a long way, but the pioneering spirit that marked its beginning is still alive and well. Here’s to the next 30 years and beyond!
