1858-2008:  Susquehanna's Sesquicentennial

From the President


Commencement 1963

As the Susquehanna University community gathered to open the 150th academic year, I tried to imagine our founder, the Rev. Benjamin Kurtz, standing beside me for this auspicious occasion. Looking into the crowded audience of Weber Chapel Auditorium, Kurtz would have seen students from 30 states and 12 countries. He would have heard students and their faculty mentors describing an accomplished community that is passionate about ideas and the world around them. And, as we joined together to sing our "Alma Mater," he would have witnessed a palpable sense of pride for our beloved Susquehanna.

From its humble yet brave beginnings, Susquehanna University has emerged as a national liberal arts college that has shaped the lives of generations of undergraduates. Thanks to the courage and foresight of leaders throughout our history – and the steadfast devotion of faculty, staff and benefactors – Susquehanna has built a legacy of graduates who are respected citizens, faithful stewards and ethical professionals in this increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

As we mark our institution's sesquicentennial, there are many reasons for us to give thanks, to reflect, to celebrate and to look forward with great anticipation. Please join me in reflecting on the experiences that have shaped our university and in renewing the promise that our founder made in 1858: to help students reach further and serve others through their ideas and actions.

We look forward to having you join us in the celebration!

Warmest regards,

L. Jay Lemons
President