HSU Turns 100: A Centennial Primer

On the Parent & Family Network, some of you have been asking about the university’s Centennial, a year-long celebration commemorating the university’s first 100 years.

A Look Back in Time

HSU was founded in 1913, when California Gov. Hiram Johnson signed a law establishing Humboldt State Normal School for the “education and training of teachers.” A year later, the school held its first classes, and in 1915, Humboldt graduated its first class of 15 women.

We’ve come a long way since then, and to honor that history, HSU is hosting a series of events and activities throughout the year commemorating the milestone. As part of the celebration, you may have noticed that students who graduated last May were called the Centennial, recognizing the 100th anniversary since the university was founded. Students who graduate in the spring of 2014 will be part of the New Century Class, looking ahead to the university’s next 100 years.

Commencement: May 17

This year’s Commencement ceremonies—scheduled for May 17th in Redwood Bowl—will see the unveiling of a new ceremonial mace, designed and created by Art Professor Kris Patzlaff and her students. Patzlaff is one of several faculty members, students and staff donating their time and expertise to help celebrate the historic event.

Commencement will also feature a new recessional song composed and performed by Music Professor Gil Cline and a 10-member brass band of students, faculty and community members. The 6-minute piece will honor HSU’s first century and feature sounds from campus, including the HSU fight song and university center’s familiar bell tower.

The last event before Commencement will be Founders Day, April 25. The celebration will include a time capsule burial, a student and faculty research showcase and a Dance of the Century, featuring a chance to dress up from any decade of the last century. Students, parents and family members are encouraged to attend.

Get all the latest news on HSU’s Centennial, including events, history and more at humboldt.edu/100 or Facebook.com/HSU100.

We hope you’ll join us as we reflect on our last century and look ahead to the next 100 years!