KOKOMO, Ind. — It’s a celebration 75 years in the making.
Indiana University Kokomo will commemorate the anniversary of its 1945 founding with a year of activities and events. The festivities honor the campus’s humble beginnings in the Seiberling Mansion, and its evolution into a mature baccalaureate institution offering 60 degrees and programs.
“We hope everyone will join us as we celebrate this important milestone in our history,” said Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke. “We are proud of the achievements of our students, faculty, and staff in the last 75 years, and we look forward to serving our region in the future. We’re especially excited about our new Student Activities and Events Center currently under construction, our first new building in 20 years.”
This momentous occasion coincides with IU’s Bicentennial, marking its establishment in 1820.
Activities kick off September at First Friday, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in downtown Kokomo. Art students will create giant prints on Main Street, using a steamroller, and students, faculty, and staff will be on hand to distribute IU Kokomo swag.
Golfers can celebrate by participating in the annual IU Kokomo Golf Outing, at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 11, at the Wildcat Creek Golf Course. The event benefits the students and campus. Register at IU Kokomo Golf Outing
Also September 11, take a trip down Memory Lane, as the 75 Years in Pictures exhibit at the Art Gallery, in the Library Building. Featuring photos from the campus archives, it opens with a reception from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and continues through October 18.
IU Kokomo looks back to its beginnings at 1:30 p.m. Monday, September 16, dedicating a historical marker at the Seiberling Mansion, 1200 W. Sycamore Street. The marker honors the mansion for its significance as the campus’s first home.
The observance continues Tuesday, September 17, with a community walk and picnic. The event begins with a walk from campus at 11 a.m., and a picnic lunch at noon in Foster Park.
Anniversary commemorations take on an international flair Wednesday, September 18, at the annual Culture Fest. Everyone is invited for a celebration of cultures from around the world, honoring the campus’s diversity, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Kelley Student Center.
Faculty and staff take center stage Wednesday, September 18, presenting their scholarly work at the faculty research symposium, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in Alumni Hall. The day ends with a reception from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in the Art Gallery.
Cougar Athletics join the festivities on Friday, September 20, with a tailgate before the IU Kokomo women’s volleyball team takes on the Saint Xavier University Cougars. The free tailgate begins at 6 p.m. at Cougar Gym, 507 E. Superior St., Kokomo, with the game at 7 p.m. Game tickets are $5 for adults, and free for students, faculty, staff, and children 12 and younger.
Birthday activities continue Friday, October 11, with an event at Tin Man Brewing, 500 N. Buckeye Street, Kokomo. Those attending will have the opportunity to buy one of 75 sets of six limited edition IU Kokomo glasses, in a commemorative package, created by students in the Design Center.
Additional events are planned throughout the 2019-2020 school year. Go to 75years.iuk.edu for more information.
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Indiana University Kokomo celebrates 75 years as north central Indiana’s choice for higher education.