The university's quasquicentennial year officially began at the opening of the annual Planning Week on Aug. 19.
“Happy quasquicentennial! We are 125 years young this year,” Lambert declared as he wrapped up his address in Alumni Gymnasium. A short time later, special university birthday cakes were cut with all faculty and staff invited to join the celebration of the event at a picnic at the new Lakeside Dining Hall. Special banners marking the yearlong celebration decorated the campus.
A special 125 anniversary website contains a full schedule of the year’s quasquicentennial events, as well a special video and extensive information and photos depicting Elon’s inspiring history. The website, which is linked on Elon’s homepage, is at www.elon.edu/125.
Highlights of this year’s celebration include a special event and the dedication of the Martin Alumni Center on Nov. 8 as part of Homecoming; a series of commemorative tree plantings culminating with Founders Day plantings on March 11; a quasquicentennial historical exhibit in the Isabella Cannon Room of the Center for the Arts in November and March; special historical features in The Magazine of Elon; an interactive Elon Traditions website; and a series of video vignettes titled “Our Community, Our Story.”
In addition, a set of collectible cards with highlights of Elon history will be distributed to all members of the community throughout the fall semester at the weekly College Coffees.
A highlight of Founders Day will be the release of a new book on Elon’s history by Professor Emeritus of History George Troxler. “From a Grove of Oaks: The Story of Elon University” is a richly illustrated volume that is the result of several years of research by Professor Troxler. Watch the special website, www.elon.edu/125, for details on ordering a copy for delivery next spring.