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Southern University celebrates 139 years as a system of higher learning

Southern University celebrated its 139 Founders’ Day Tuesday by reminiscing on its founders’ vision and duty to continue to carry out its mission. This year’s theme was “Fulfilling the Promise.” The commemoration was filled with traditional events that allowed the campus community to engage and participate.

 

The celebration started with the annual Southern University Laboratory School pilgrimage to the Clarks gravesite located on the Bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor of the Southern University System, offered words of wisdom and encouragement to the group of gathered students and faculty.

 

Following, students, faculty, alumni, and the community filled the F.G. Clark Activity Center for the morning convocation. Selections from the University’s wind ensemble, concert choir, and gospel choir highlighted the program. Domoine Rutledge, Southern University System Board of Supervisors chairman and vice president and general counsel at CSRS, Incorporated, was the keynote speaker.

 

“When we walk the hallowed ground of this campus, we should honor that very soil for which the buildings stand,” said Rutledge. “We must remember that the promise was costly.”

 

He went on to take a journey through past memories before the SU System was officially pulled together. From a plantation with slave quarters to five thriving campuses, the speaker pointed out the founders may have had a vision, but the system has surpassed the vision and mission and continues to fulfill the promise of providing a quality educational environment for all.

 

“Yes, we started with 70 students and $10,000, but today we stand as unique system of higher learning that welcomes thousands of students from over 20 countries,” said Rutledge. “Today, 139 years later, our star still shines brightly.”

 

Rutledge ended his speech with varying visions that the founders and notable past campus administrators and leaders would have set in motion for the future of the System.

 

To end the festivities, students held a birthday party in the courtyard of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. Local fanfare, cake, and ice cream were served to celebrate the occasion.

 

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