On February 28, Concord University is celebrating a sesquicentennial milestone. The university has devoted 150 years to serving the southern region of West Virginia and the southwest region of Virginia. To commemorate this occasion the Office of Advancement has planned a week of events leading to Founder’s Day.
All those who feel a connection with “The Campus Beautiful” are welcomed and encouraged to attend these events, including staff, faculty, alumni, students, and friends. Events will take place starting Monday February 21st and run through the following Monday.
Monday, February 21st
The event is centered around a commemorative history book, which is being published and will be available in the coming weeks. Meet with those involved in making the book, and listen to an excerpt from the book itself, at 6 p.m. in the President’s Room in the Marsh Library.
Tuesday, February 22nd
At 5:30 p.m., The Butcher Art Gallery will be open featuring curated pieces from Concord’s faculty. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. a special presentation will be given in the Main Auditorium by Randall Reid-Smith, Curator of the West Virginia Departments of Arts, Culture and History.
Wednesday, February 23rd
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. there will be commemorative giveaways and a banner to sign in honor of Concord’s Birthday, which will be joining other artifacts in Concord University’s Archives. Come to the Jerry and Jean Beasley Student Center for prizes and to sign a piece of history!
Thursday, February 24th
Ask yourself, how much Concord history do you know? Come find out over at the Subsides area of the student center where there will be a Trivia Night at 7 p.m. Test your university knowledge and win some prizes!
Friday, February 25th
Join University President Kendra Boggess for lunch between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Libby Alvis Dining Hall. Take a selfie, and if you do use the #CU150 when you post to social media!
Saturday, February 26th
The President’s Ball, in which President Kendra Boggess will present her Presidential Excellence Awards. This is preceded by a formal dinner at 5:30 p.m. and followed by a live band which will perform covers of songs all generations can appreciate. This event does require an RSVP. To purchase tickets visit concord.edu/presball and for any additional questions contact the Office of Advancement at 304-384-6311 or email foundation@concord.edu.
Sunday February 27th
We want you to dig out those old pictures, memories, whatever you look back on fondly on from Concord and post about it on your story! Tell us about your fondest memories, best experiences. If you met a spouse or partner on campus, share it with us! Be sure to use the hashtag #CU150 in any posts!
Monday, February 28th
Founder’s Day itself and beginning at 3 p.m. in the Alexander Fine Arts Center there will be a special presentation honoring Concord for it’s 150 Years. This will include video greetings from West Virginia’s United States Representatives, a proclamation and greeting from Governor Jim Justice’s office, as well as special remarks from President Kendra Boggess. Following the presentation, birthday cake will be served.
All are encouraged to participate in these events, and to show their pride for “The Campus Beautiful” in these coming weeks as one big Mountain Lion Family.
by Brandon Roberts