Illinois State University will celebrate its 163 years during the Founding Celebration, February 19-20.

PLEASE NOTE: Esteemed alumnus Andrew Purnell ’57 was slated to receive an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters during the Founding Celebration activities. Due to unforeseen circumstances, his investiture will be postponed until next year.

Other events, including the Bell Ringing and the Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon will continue as planned. Celebration events on Wednesday will include the Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. February 19, in the Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center. Awards will be presented at the luncheon to honor service, TEAM Excellence, and commitment to diversity and sustainability.

The Bell Ringing will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 20, in the Brown Ballroom. Selected faculty, staff, students, alumni, and others will ring the bell 163 times to mark the University’s years of existence.

The Annual Alumni Awards Dinner will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, February 20, in the Hancock Stadium Club Room.