Illinois State University continues to build on its impressive history of more than 150 years of education and service. As it does every year, the University celebrates its history and looks forward to the future during Founders Day.
This year’s event, on Thursday, Feb. 19, will pay tribute to Illinois State’s rich history and celebrate its continuing success, even in the midst of global economic troubles.
Founders Day events will begin at 10 a.m. with the Old Main Bell ringing ceremony in the Bone Student Center Prairie Room. Selected faculty, staff, students, alumni and others will ring the bell 152 times to mark the University’s years of existence.
Displays highlighting Illinois State’s history and academic mission will be in the Bone Student Center Brown Ballroom from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. During that time, John Freed, University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of History, will sign copies of his book, “Educating Illinois: Illinois State University 1857-2007,” which was commissioned for the University’s sesquicentennial.
The Founders Day Convocation will take place at 2 p.m. in the Brown Ballroom. The traditional event will include the presentation of some of the University’s highest awards, including the Honorary Degree, Distinguished Alumni Awards and Distinguished Professor. Other awards will honor excellence in teaching, research, service and commitment to diversity. A reception will follow the Convocation at 3:30 p.m. Illinois State alumnus James V. Koch will be the Honorary Degree recipient during the ceremony. Koch is Board of Visitors professor of economics and President Emeritus of Old Dominion University.
