The University of New Brunswick (UNB) Undergraduate Chemistry Society successfully celebrated National Chemistry Week once again this year. The first event, which was held on the evening of October 21, was a special lecture given by Dr. Todd Arsenault. The environmental chemistry based lecture was entitled "How Deep Are Your Footprints?- Your Impact on Environmental Chemistry." This was a public lecture which was well attended by an audience of approximately 50 people from the general public, students and teachers from nearby high schools and students, faculty and staff from the university community. The lecture was centered on the environmental pollution that is close to home, instead of the stereotypical smokestacks and toxic waste dumps that often come to mind. Air, land and water impacts were investigated based on "everyday" pollutants which are now emerging in the environment. The lecture was enjoyed by all, and was interactive. Dr. Arsenault frequently asked questions of his audience and performed demonstrations throughout his talk.

Dr. Arsenault is currently the Provincial Drinking Water Specialist for the N.B. Department of the Environment and Local Government. He has over ten years experience in environmental and analytical chemistry as well as a wide experience of other areas of organic chemistry, including synthesis, structure determination, and the chemistry of natural products. Dr. Arsenault is also an alumni of UNB’s Bachelor of Science in Chemistry program.

Dr. Arsenault Presenting his Environmental Chemistry Lecture

On the afternoon of October 23, Coffee with the Proffee was held, which was a luncheon hosted by the society for students, staff and faculty of the department. The luncheon was well enjoyed by all and is always a great way for students and faculty to meet outside of a classroom setting. The society served coffee, tea, juice, fruit, vegetables, cookies and other munchies.

After National Chemistry Week, several members of the society attended a tour of the Dairy Labs of the N.B. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture. We observed various analytical techniques used in the analysis of milk, and learned some aspects of dairy production and farm life. The tour was very interesting and was enjoyed by all.

Through our work with National Chemistry Week and our many other events, we hope to continue raising awareness of our chapter, our university, and the importance of chemistry in our society. The executive is looking forward to another semester of organizing Chem Society events.

Submitted by:
Crystal Craig
UGCS Chair