Dear Lawrentians,
Happy new year to each of you, near and far. What a remarkable year this is for Lawrence, as we celebrate the university’s 175th anniversary.
We are marking this incredible milestone with a year-long celebration that honors our storied history, celebrates our powerful present, and looks ahead to our bright future. I am excited to join all of you in the year’s festivities.
The celebration begins next week over Founders Day weekend, which marks that historic January 15 in 1847, when the Territory of Wisconsin Legislature granted a charter to Lawrence Institute. That institute evolved into the university we know and love today. After visiting his namesake institution, founder Amos A. Lawrence shared with his wife that the institution was a “great and good work” of which they could be proud. These words still ring true today.
Since our founding 175 years ago, Lawrence has become a nationally ranked college of liberal arts and sciences and conservatory of music that attracts students from nearly every state and 40 countries. With an alumni community 20,000 strong and counting, Lawrentians are shining their light in communities around the world.
In this anniversary year, you can look forward to:
- The official 175th Anniversary webpage, where you can find information on celebratory events, engagement opportunities, and reflections on Lawrence and Milwaukee-Downer history. The website will be updated throughout the year, so visit often.
- An exclusive selection of 175th gear and merchandise in our virtual anniversary store. The store launches on Founders Weekend and will be available throughout 2022. You can get gear including t-shirts, mugs, blankets, and more!
- A Founders Weekend Celebration on January 14 & 15. All Lawrentians near and far can take part in activities like a virtual trivia contest, a livestreamed Lawrence University 175th Birthday Recital, social media engagement, and more!
- Additional celebrations over the course of the year, including a Fox Cities community celebration in the spring and a campus and alumni celebration in the fall.
Stay tuned to the 175th webpage, as well as your email, for additional 175th events, coverage, and engagement opportunities.
We shine brighter together, so grab your Lawrence gear and join me as we celebrate this historic year!
Sincerely,
Laurie A. Carter
President