Peru, Nebraska - Peru State celebrated the 150th anniversary of its first day of classes today, October
24.
On June 20, 1867, the fledgling state government of Nebraska named Peru, Nebraska,
as the home of the state’s first college. The college was a Normal School dedicated
to training teachers.
Following the school’s founding, Ernie Longfellow wrote in The Normal on the Hill,
“The first term opened October 24, 1867, with thirty-two pupils enrolled in the Normal
School.”
The comparatively late start in 1867 followed the harvest. The first day of classes
at Peru State this year was August 21.
All-Campus Photo
In years past, an All-Campus Photo was taken on the quad. This tradition was resurrected
for the sesquicentennial anniversary.
All-Campus photo take the morning of October 24, 2017.
Jazz on the Green
A blustery wind, with gusts over 50 miles per hour, moved Jazz on the Green and its
lunch into the Student Center. Music filled the building as students, faculty, staff,
alumni and friends of the College gathered to enjoy each other's company.
The Peru State Jazz Band, led by Dr. Ken Meints.
More of the Peru State Jazz Band.
PSEA - Education Roots
The Peru State Education Association (PSEA) also moved their activities inside. The
group collected Box Tops, school supplies and books to benefit local elementary schools
and elementary schools affected by fall hurricanes.
150th Birthday Snapchat filter applied to a photo of 2017 PSEA members.
Birthday Party
The PSEA may bring the games, but the Professional Staff Senate (and Creative Dining)
provided the dessert! In addition to birthday cake and ice cream, homemade desserts
were donated by staff and faculty.
The First Lady of Peru State, Elaine Hanson, leads the way.
Ted Harshbarger and the Professional Staff Senate serves desserts to students.
Homecoming and more:
An entire range of events are scheduled for this week including a Homecoming parade
and football game on Saturday, October 28; a week of theatrical performances of The
Arsonists; two nights of choir concerts; an All-Alumni Dinner on Friday night; a Friday
night volleyball game; Saturday morning’s Nebraska’s Toughest Mile; an open invitation
to the region for food and games on the quad on Saturday; and Boo Bash on Sunday,
October 29.
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For more information about this release or other Peru State communications, please
contact Jason Hogue, Peru State College Marketing and Communications, 402-872-2429.