Established in 1872, The University of Toledo has a storied history with more than 168,000 alumni around the world. A year-long sesquicentennial celebration will recognize the historic milestones, achievements and the positive impact the University has had since its founding 150 years ago.
Proudly known as the city of Toledo’s university, community members are invited to participate in the commemorative events. With in-person and virtual events planned, visitors may explore the historical campus walking tour, cheer on Rocket athletics or attend one of the many special lectures or performances scheduled throughout the year.
“This is a special year for our University granting us all the opportunity to reflect on our unique history and celebrate the accomplishments of those who came before us,” said Dr. Gregory Postel, UToledo president. “But just as important, it is an opportunity for us to collectively look forward at UToledo’s bright future and share our dreams for the next generations of Rockets.”
In honor of the once-in-a-lifetime occasion, UToledo is planning a commemorative Founder’s Day on Oct. 12, 2022, with festivities planned throughout the day. Scheduled events include a barbecue on both UToledo campuses for faculty, staff and students, and the Toledo community also is invited to live concerts and entertainment, special exhibits at Carlson Library and a fireworks display.
“This milestone birthday celebration is an opportunity for the entire Rocket community – near and far – to come together for the betterment of our beloved University,” said William Pierce, associate vice president of alumni engagement and annual giving. “We hope you’ll join us for one or all the commemorative events planned throughout the year
A new website, utoledo.edu/150celebration, was created in honor of the occasion. The website features institutional history, alumni profiles, sesquicentennial events and more. Members of the Rocket community can share their personal UToledo stories in honor of the celebration using the hashtag #UToledo150.
Special commemorative merchandise also is for sale online. And The University of Toledo Press is offering a special edition book outlining 150 years of Rocket history, available later this fall.
The planning committee for the sesquicentennial is co-chaired by Pierce; Dr. Adrienne King, vice president for marketing and communications; and Dr. Sammy Spann, vice president of student affairs and dean of students. Committee members include: Ansley Abrams-Frederick, director of alumni programming; Floyd Akins, vice president for advancement; Joe Bellfy, director of advancement communications; Barbara Floyd, professor emeritus; Judson Lohman, event coordinator for university libraries; Kate McComb, web content specialist; Sarah Metzger, executive assistant for alumni engagement; Danelle Rondinelli, executive assistant at the University of Toledo Medical Center; Suzie Pinkham, executive assistant for development; Kevin Taylor, brand and licensing manager; Cheryl Thomas, executive assistant for student affairs; Alex Zernechel, associate director for student involvement and fraternity and sorority life; Valerie Simmons-Walston, special assistant to the president for community engagement and strategic partnerships; and Josh Dittman, associate athletic director for development. Contact the committee at 150celebration@utoledo.edu.
