In order to access subsidies necessary to ensure the University’s development, the Oblates decided to de-denominate the University. In 1965, the University therefore became a public institution. The Oblates, who had directed the university since its foundation, took with them the ecclesiastical faculties and founded Saint Paul University. Interestingly, it was an Oblate who served as Rector of the University until 1984, Father Roger Guindon, o.m.i. His successor, Antoine d'Iorio, was the first lay rector.
[Image: Fonds 6, PHO-NB-6-564, Credit: University of Ottawa]