FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 8, 2017 5:00 p.m. CDT
Contact Jason Hogue, Peru State College Marketing and Communications, 402.872.2429
Peru, Nebraska - During the 2017 Commencement, Peru State launched its celebration of 150 years as
Nebraska's first college. The Commencement included an unveiling of a 150th anniversary
banner; the first performance of a signature choral composition; a commencement address
from Governor Pete Ricketts; and, later that day, the ribbon-cutting for the new Visitor
and Interpretive Center.
Nebraska State College System Trustee, Bob Engles, center, had the honor of unfurling the banner (right) for display. Carpenter (far left), Hanson and John Chaney, also a NSCS trustee, look on.
Dr. Dan Hanson, president of Peru State College, said, "This is our capstone celebration
of student success. Students, we are proud of you and grateful that we have been
a part of your educational journey."
"This is also an important day for Peru State College. Today we have the privilege
of kicking off our year-long celebration of our sesquicentennial. Founded on June
20, 1867, we have been serving students and shaping the future for 150 years!"
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 founded as a normal school
dedicated to training teachers.
Stan Carpenter, chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, said, "On behalf
of the Nebraska State College System, it is an honor to be a part of this special
occasion and to help commence Peru State's sesquicentennial celebration."
"Today, we celebrate another year of outstanding graduates, and 150 years of how this
college has shaped Nebraska's future."
Carpenter also quoted the 1917 Peruvian, "For the last half century since her establishment,
the history of Peru (State College) has been practically that of the great state with
which she was originated."
He adds, "And now, at 150 years, we again remember our College's incredible history
and look forward to a vibrant future."
Kristi Nies, assistant professor of English, receiving the 2017 Teaching Excellence Award from Dr. Dan Hanson.
Upcoming Events:
Peru State College’s Sesquicentennial All-College Reunion is June 16-18, 2017. All
Peru State alumni are invited to attend this weekend before Charter Day. Activities
include an All-College Dinner and Alumni Awards; the launch of the Peru State College
anniversary book by the Omaha World-Herald; workshops with faculty and staff; and
many other activities and meals to let you catch-up with old friends and new!
This Sesquicentennial Charter Event Celebration will mark the charter date of June
20, 1867, of Nebraska’s first institution of higher education by the Nebraska Legislature.
The historic event will include daytime activities for children ages 5 years to eight
grade, Nebraska artists program and historical presentations for all ages. The evening
reception and banquet will kick off with musical entertainment and an introduction
of Nebraska City’s Chautauqua WWI re-enactors.
Homecoming in 2017 is a special celebration of the 150th anniversary of Peru State
College’s founding. The Homecoming dates are scheduled the week of the first day
of classes (October 24, 1867) and events include: football ; volleyball; an All-Alumni
Dinner featuring milestone graduation anniversaries; pep rally and bonfire; special
reunion celebrations for alumni who participated in Student Senate, Board of Trustees,
Pep Band, Homecoming Kings and Queens, and Cheerleading; the Toughest Mile (race);
and a parade like no other!
Visit www.peru.edu/150 to learn more about these events and the many other anniversary
events planned at Peru State College!
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