Dr. James Houdeshell’s Presentation of 125th Anniversary Memento
125th Anniversary Founding Day Celebration
Feb. 8, 2007

President Freed, Dr. Beckett, University Trustees, the University community, ladies, and gentlemen: Thank you very much for allowing me to speak a moment about the dedication of 125 years of service to the students.

Dedicate – What does it mean in relation to The University of Findlay? Webster’s dictionary states that “to dedicate” means “To set apart for worship or to devote to a sacred or special purpose; to devote to some work; to address someone or something as a sign of affection; or to open formally.”

Allow us to extend the word Dedicate to dedication and our purpose for this day of celebration. Webster says Dedication is an “inscription to a cause” and in this case the cause is the education of students. It was 125 years ago that the Churches of God leaders and the Findlay community met for the first time to establish a Board of Trustees for Findlay College, now The University of Findlay.

As one reads Dr. Kern’s book “The First 100 Years,” and as one who has had the privilege to witness 56 years of university service to students, we recognize that the church, the community and others have dedicated 125 years of effort to succeed in the preparation of students for success in their lives.

A dedication plaque will be placed on the front yard recognizing the first 125 years, and the inscription says “125th Anniversary; The University of Findlay with its founding partners, The Churches of God, General Conference, and The citizens of Findlay, Ohio celebrates 125 years of Tradition and Excellence in higher education. February 8, 2007.”

With a strong faith in God and with a strong effort to excel in academics and life’s preparation, The University of Findlay will continue in future years to prepare students for life and success. I invite Dr. Freed to come forth and receive the dedication plaque. God bless the University, all of you, and America.

Dr. James Houdeshell is the chairman of the 125th anniversary committee and serves as special assistant to the president and development officer.