The University of Findlay officially began its 125th anniversary celebration with a Founding Day celebration Feb. 8, the same date the first board of trustees meeting was held in 1882. “Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future” was the theme for the evening and is the theme for the entire anniversary year.

Visiting dignitaries from other Ohio colleges and universities took part in UF’s 125th anniversary celebration.

The Founding Day celebration began with a formal processional of UF trustees, faculty and staff in full academic regalia, joined by visiting dignitaries including Mr. Carleton P. Palmer III, Ohio Wesleyan University; Dr. Martin Reno, Heidelberg College; Mr. William McMillen, the University of Toledo; Dr. Michael Grandillo, Tiffin University; Dr. Karen Klassen Harder, Bluffton University; Dr. David Draper, Winebrenner Theological Seminary; Dr. Janet Robinson, Lourdes College; and Ms. Judy Ennis, Owens Community College. Also in attendance was Mr. Phillip Riegle, Hancock county commissioner.

Dr. C. Richard Beckett, chairman of the board of trustees, introduced Dr. Edwin L. Heminger, trustee emeritus, who gave the convocation address. Beckett noted that the Heminger family has a long history with the University. Isaac Newton Heminger, Edwin’s grandfather, graduated from Findlay College, as it was known then, in 1890 as a member of its first class. The Heminger family remained in Findlay, entered the newspaper business and became actively associated with the Findlay Publishing Co., where Edwin eventually served as president of the company until 1989 when he was named chairman of the board of directors.

In his address, Heminger focused on what the University has meant to his family, students, the College First Church of God, the community and the world beyond Findlay. He noted that UF claims more than 19,000 living alumni “whose lives have been individually enriched intellectually, socially, physically and spiritually by their experiences on this campus. [UF] alumni have carried their teachings to every corner of the world.”

Dr. James Houdeshell, special assistant to the president and chairman of the 125th steering committee, presented an anniversary plaque, to be placed on campus, to Dr. DeBow Freed, president of the University, who accepted it on behalf of the University.

Following the convocation, many attendees enjoyed dinner and conversation with fellow Oilers.	The Symphonic Band, directed by Jack Taylor, performed “The Odyssey” after dinner.

Members of the Symphonic Band used a variety of instruments to create sounds of thunder, fire and water.

Following the convocation and dinner, Jack M. Taylor, director of bands and professor of music, directed The University of Findlay Symphonic Band, comprised of both UF students and community members, in a performance of “The Odyssey, Symphony No. 2” by Robert W. Smith. The four-part symphony recreated the sounds of a thunderstorm, sword fight, fire and more using non-traditional instruments while presenting the musical adventure of Odysseus and his travels. A large screen displayed coordinating images from three movies, adding additional visual interest to the performance.

A special dinner for students in Henderson Dining Hall also was held.

Festivities will conclude with Homecoming in October. For a complete list of 125th anniversary events and additional information about the University, please visit the 125th anniversary website.