OLIVET, Mich. — Olivet College commemorated its 175th year with a special Founders’ Day celebration on Feb. 20. The program featured student presentations on the College — past, present and future. President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D., also shared remarks.
“175 years after its founding, you can see that Olivet College was very intentionally founded on certain principles that have guided her over these many years and which continue today to be of equal power,” Corey said. “We continue to define Olivet College by who we include instead of who we exclude in a bold and great way and reject the notions of prejudice, of elitism, of prestige. As we gather here today to honor and connect to our past, we also work to create a strong, thriving and sustained future for this great college. We recognize that there is something more than just ourselves; it’s about honoring the generations before us and ensuring that generations to come will likewise have the opportunity to benefit from the Olivet College educational experience.”
Following the celebration in C.S. Mott auditorium, there was a reception with light refreshments at the Hosford History Center and Lawrence Archives, which has recently been renovated to house the Olivet College archives. Students, faculty, staff and invited guests enjoyed a sneak peek at the modernized building and historical “Students through Time” displays. The Hosford History Center and Lawrence Archives will be formally dedicated and opened to the public in May.
In addition, the ceremonial ringing of the bell in the Olivet College Square was followed by a visit to “Father” John J. Shipherd’s gravesite.
