SPRINGFIELD, Mo., September 25, 2023 — Drury University celebrated its 150th anniversary during a day of events on September 25. The celebration marked a momentous occasion in the university’s long and storied history, commemorating 150 years of excellence in education and the community.
The day’s festivities began at Sunderland Field, where an estimated 600 attendees gathered for a group photo, capturing the spirit of unity and celebration. The events continued with one of the most significant moments of the day: a Bell Ringing and tree planting ceremony where President John Beuerlein ‘75 rang a bell to honor the first day of classes in 1873.
Following this symbolic act, attendees convened at Stone Chapel for Convocation, featuring a special reading by David Harrison ’59, Missouri’s 7th Poet Laureate. Harrison shared a moving poem about Missouri, commissioned by Governor Mike Parson, making its debut in public. Additionally, attendees were treated to the premiere of a musical composition by Carlyle Sharpe especially commissioned for the Sesquicentennial Celebration.
“Today we celebrate the many sacrifices made by generations of trustees, administration, faculty, staff, graduates, parents and friends of education who stepped up, stepped in and stepped forward to help the school in times of great adversity,” Beuerlein said. “Today, on this monumental anniversary, let us rededicate ourselves to the great task before us. That upon the shoulders of those who came before us, we rededicate ourselves to that which defines us – a spirit of community passionate about student success. That passion’s work is not yet finished here.”
The celebration continued with a reception and President’s Discussion Panel at the Judy Thompson Executive Conference Center. On the panel included past presidents Todd Parnell ‘69, who served between 2007-2013, and John Moore, who served between 1983-2004, and university archivist William (Bill) Garvin. During the panel, moderated by Beuerlein, panelists shared their reflections on the university’s remarkable journey over the past century and a half and the many opportunities that lay ahead.
“This has been a good day. Not many institutions survive the ups and downs to celebrate 150 years,” said Moore. “I am heartened by what I see looking ahead. We have all the pieces in place, from the great traditions, good faculty and bright students. I hope we never get away from the liberal arts core that this place was founded to provide.”
For more information about Drury University’s 150th Anniversary Celebration and upcoming events, visit Drury.edu/150.
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Media Contact: Jasmine Cooper, Executive Director of University Communications and Media Relations, Office: (417) 873-7390, Email: JCooper020@drury.edu
