The University of Prince Edward Island’s Institute of Island Studies marked a significant milestone on June 14, 2025, celebrating 40 years of groundbreaking research and collaboration in the field of island life. The anniversary celebration featured an international panel, reflections on the institute’s legacy, and a look toward the future of island research.
Founded in 1985, the Institute has grown from a local research center focused on Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) to a globally recognized hub for studying island life. Over the past four decades, it has played a pivotal role in shaping public policy, hosting influential conferences, publishing numerous books, and building strong partnerships with island scholars worldwide.
Laurie Brinklow, the Institute’s chair, emphasized the enduring relevance of the institute’s mission, which remains focused on studying and promoting the unique identity of islands. She noted that the institute has been instrumental in offering evidence-based research to inform public policy, particularly for small island jurisdictions like P.E.I.
“Being an island, we’re a special place. We’ve had this amazing history, and the Institute’s work continues to promote that history and create a lasting impact on public policy,” Brinklow said. “We want to harness the power of ‘islandness’ to showcase our vibrant community and help us build a self-determined, thriving place.”
A key concept that has emerged from the institute’s work is the notion of “islandness as our superpower.” Brinklow explained that this idea reflects the strong sense of place, community, and connection that is integral to island living. The institute aims to amplify this sense of identity and work toward creating solutions to challenges that islands face.
As part of its current work, the institute is exploring ways to make P.E.I. more welcoming, as part of a broader population project. Additionally, it is preparing to host the “Turning the Tide” conference, which will bring together island scholars and policymakers from around the world to discuss key island challenges, including climate change.
Eric Mijts, a researcher from the University of Aruba, was a guest speaker at the anniversary event. Mijts has worked closely with UPEI’s Institute of Island Studies since 2016, collaborating on projects focused on sustainable development and small island jurisdictions. He praised the strength of the partnerships built through the institute, particularly those involving island communities facing similar challenges.
“What stands out most about our work with UPEI is the strength of our partnerships and the shared goal of improving life on islands,” Mijts said. “Islands face unique challenges, but they also offer innovative solutions. On an island, you are directly involved in solving the problems, and it’s remarkable to see the collaboration and innovation that emerge.”
The anniversary event also highlighted the Institute’s growing educational programs, including its Master of Arts in Island Studies. Brinklow expressed excitement over the continued growth of the program, with 27 new students joining from across the globe. Looking forward, she expressed hope that one day, one of the students could become a premier, leading with the knowledge and values cultivated through island studies.
“We envision a future where island studies are at the forefront of global discussions,” Brinklow said. “It’s incredibly inspiring to think about the next generation of leaders who will bring an island perspective to global challenges.”
The 40th-anniversary celebration underscored the institute’s lasting impact on island communities and its continued dedication to advancing research and education on island life.
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