How does Central celebrate a milestone? All year long

Published:
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Author:
Marisa Nadolny

As the 175th anniversary of Central approached, campus leadership knew the occasion would call for something big — 175 years big.

President Zulma R. Toro explained, “We have so much to celebrate, and I am so grateful to the people — past and present — who have made Central the premier state university in Connecticut. In recognizing Central’s 175th anniversary, we celebrate its history, growth, and achievements while looking toward the future.”

An initial committee launched nine more, and come February 2024, dozens of volunteers on campus had their marching orders. One committee’s charge was to build a time capsule; another collected Central stories from friends and alumni; another found ways to incorporate the anniversary into classwork; and yet another planned an event for the “official” anniversary date: June 22, 1849.

Naturally, an anniversary as significant as a dodransbicentennial calls for a party — or three. Thanks to the Anniversary Toast, Anniversary Gala, and Backyard BBQ committees, the entire Central community joined in the celebration throughout the year.

Friends and supporters gather at the 175th Anniversary Gala held on Nov. 2. (Photo by Stan Godlewski)

Meanwhile, the Institutional Marketing and Communications Department got to work on several special projects, including a dedicated anniversary web page; an online anniversary interactive timeline; and an anniversary logo that will appear on university correspondence and marketing materials for the rest of the anniversary year, among other projects, including a commemorative anniversary medal gifted to the Class of 2024 at commencement. 

By June, an online anniversary swag shop opened, offering apparel and drinkware decked out with the anniversary logo.

The excitement has only grown throughout the year, and we look forward to closing out 2024 in true Central fashion—together, with our students, staff, faculty, and alumni.

Students at Central's 175th anniversary Backyard BBQ

Students take a group photo with Kizer the Blue Devil at the 175th Anniversary Backyard BBQ in May. (Photo by Zach Cunningham)