Salina, KS — Happy Birthday, Kansas Wesleyan! On September 15, 125 years ago, this amazing University was founded through the dedicated work of many important educational supporters, including Rev. J.H. Lockwood, A.M. Claflin, and the Hon. A.P. Collins. Ground was broken on a spot of prairie, just past a potato patch and a corn field, and the first building was eventually named “Lockwood Hall”. Doors opened on this day in 1886 to just two students that year, and since then KWU has continued to flourish.
“In the 125 years that have passed since its establishment in September of 1886, the University has undergone remarkable transformation. Our enrollments have grown to over 800, our campus has expanded, and our curriculum has been adapted to the needs of 21st Century students. Yet, despite all the changes, we have held true to our Christian values and the principle of integrating faith and learning to developing intellect and character. This principle will continue to guide us in the years to come,” said University President Fletcher Lamkin.
Throughout the past year, many celebratory events have taken place, including the dedication of the Bolen Coyote, Devotional Garden, Wall of Champions and the inauguration of our University President, Dr. Fletcher Lamkin. The year’s events will culminate with a week-long Homecoming celebration, beginning this Saturday with Community Day at Salina Stadium, and ending with the KWU vs. Bethany College Homecoming football game on Saturday, September 24. President Lamkin continues to be encouraged and impressed by the KWU family.
“Kansas Wesleyan continues to make an incredible impact on the Salina Community. We provide arts, entertainment, educational opportunity, athletics, revenue, and community service that amount to a considerable contribution to the Salina. We love Salina, and we are proud to be in Salina. I hope that alums and Salinans will turn out at Community Day and show their support for the Coyotes. ”
Andrew Kohls graduated from KWU in 2010 and is now an Admissions Counselor for the University; he feels extremely connected to KWU and is honored to be a part of this important day.
“I wish that the founders of KWU could see us here today, 125 years later! We’ve done so many great things throughout our history and have produced thousands of alums that are now spreading the KWU message throughout the world! This is truly a special place! I’m very proud to be an alum and celebrate today with MY University!”
For a complete listing of Homecoming events, please visit www.kwu.edu.