Jack Watkins was a member of the founding class at Huntington University. He attended Huntington between 1961 and graduated in 1963. He is proud to hold the title as the first recipient of the Huntington paddle and the inaugural president of the student association.

“I remember planting that spruce tree that is so prominent today, before the building was even built,” recalls Jack. “There were about 10 of us, we were all so close knit and so very proud to be part of something so special.”

One of Jack’s fondest memories was where the first classes were held – it’s left a lasting imprint on his time at school.

“Classes were held at the Jackson and Barnard funeral home back then. I remember our Philosophy classes, and the mortician’s table was right there and we all sat around it.”

Watkins went on to enjoy a very successful career with over 40 years working as an executive director of family service agencies in Kingston, Fredericton, Moncton and Guelph. Today, he still has a private practice working as a therapist.