Community Members Invited to Help Penn State DuBois Celebrate 75th Anniversary

DUBOIS – Penn State DuBois commemorates its 75^th anniversary this year, and community members are invited to participate in the celebration.  A number of events are planned in honor of the campus’ diamond anniversary, all of which are open to the public. 

“The campus and the city of DuBois, as well as surrounding communities, have really grown together,” said Penn State DuBois Chancellor Anita McDonald.  “We are proud of our history, and our partnerships with these communities. We feel that people of the area can be proud of what we have all accomplished together, and we invite them to learn more about the history we share.”

Penn State DuBois was born in 1935 under the name of the DuBois Undergraduate Center of the Pennsylvania State College.  There were 42 students enrolled that year, and classes were held in the old Hubert Street School Building.  It was not until 1942 that the family of John E. DuBois gifted the DuBois Mansion and surrounding land to the university.  With that generous gift, the campus found a permanent home, and remains at that same location today.

From those humble beginnings, the campus continued to grow into what is today an internationally recognized institution, with internationally known faculty and more than 1,000 students.  An independent study found that Penn State DuBois contributes more than $66 Million to local and state economies each year; a fact that McDonald said clearly demonstrates the strong ties between campus and community.

“It’s so exciting to know that our campus contributes to the lives of people in our area, not only by providing quality education and services, but also by making such a significant impact on the economy.” 

The history and impact of the campus are things that McDonald and others at Penn State DuBois want to give the community a chance to learn more about.  Those interested will have the opportunity to do so by attending any or all of the community events planned during this 75^th anniversary year. 

The celebration begins with the Anniversary Kickoff Weekend, May 14 and 15.  A new lion woodcarving will be unveiled; guests can enjoy the Anniversary Kickoff Dinner, and attend the spring commencement ceremony with Senator Joe Scarnati as the featured speaker.

A community Picnic is planned for July 17.  The family friendly event will feature food, games, and live entertainment. 

The Diamond Anniversary Gala is set for Oct. 14, at the DuBois Country Club.  It will be an elegant occasion recognizing the history of Penn State DuBois. 

The DuBois Historical Society will hold their annual Lantern Walk on Oct. 16.  This year’s Lantern walk will feature stories about Penn State DuBois history, and will take place on campus, in honor of the 75^th anniversary.

An art display, in conjunction with Paul Winker’s art gallery is also slated for October.  The display at the Winkler gallery will feature work of Penn State students, faculty and staff.  In an art exchange, the works of local artists commonly featured at the Winkler gallery will be on display at Penn State DuBois.

Everyone is welcome to join in the celebration at any of these 75^th anniversary events.  For more information on these events, and to stay up-to-date with all activities, log onto www.ds.psu.edu