Administration plans for 125 anniversary

125th anniversary, Celina Adame, News, quasquicentennial - By Celina Adame on Thursday, April 19, 2012 - 05:17

2012 is Whittier College’s quasquicentennial, or 125th, anniversary. The theme will be “125 Years of Defining Leadership.” According to Vice President of Advancement Elizabeth Power Robison, this theme was chosen because of the leadership skills that Whittier’s graduates have displayed. “As a result of this core mission, Whittier College graduates have, since its inception, been at the forefront of civic and civil leadership, with alumni who have gone on to careers and leadership positions in business, politics, science, education, and the humanities, all the while serving their respective communities with purpose, character, and compassion,” Robison said via e-mail.

Whittier College with have a new logo during this time because of the anniversary. “With generous gifts from two members of the Board of Trustees, we developed a new logo for the 125th anniversary, and this will be used on the College’s letterhead, banners, and other special events during the anniversary year,” Robison said via e-mail.

There are plans to celebrate this occasion with some special events to take place during other larger events throughout the rest of the year like the 40th Annual Purple and Gold Golf Tournament on May 4, the Latino Graduation Celebration on May 5 and Alumni Summer Barbecues. Also during Whittier Weekend on Oct. 26-28, Professors of Political Science Fred Bergerson, Mike McBride and John Neu will be honored for their combined 125 years of teaching at the College.

Tickets for this event are $125 and $43.41 for students, faculty and staff. Robison also states that there are also plans for a special Spotlight Leadership Series during the next academic year with themes around subjects including diversity, business, technology, art, professional sports, public service and scientific discovery.

People can donate to the Whittier Fund for the 125th anniversary for $125 or more. Those who donate will become part of Club 125, in which members will receive a limited-edition token of appreciation, the opportunity to honor a professor with a tribute message, recognition on the Club 125 website, recognition on campus during Whittier Weekend and courtesies for special members during Whittier Weekend.

According to Robison, there will be a grand celebration on Oct. 27, which will have live music and other performances for students, alumni and other attendees.