Thiel College kicking off sesquicentennial celebration during Founders’ Day on Feb. 4

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Thiel College begins a more than year-long recognition and celebration of its 150th anniversary during Founders’ Day on Feb. 4.

Founders’ Day was first celebrated in 1876 and honors the memory of A. Louis and Barbara Thiel, whose generosity was the genesis of Thiel College. During Founders’ Day, the A. Louis and Barbara Thiel Distinguished Service Award is given to an alumnus, alumna or community member who has made a significant impact on the College and the region. Faculty and staff are also recognized for their contributions to the institution. Founders’ Day is followed by Winter Weekend on Feb. 5-6, where events for students, alumni, staff, and friends are held, including the sixth annual Black & White Ball.

Throughout 2016, Thiel College traditions—Commencement, Homecoming and Academic Honors Convocation—and special events will recognize the sesquicentennial.

The College’s celebration includes a special 150th-anniversary logo. The logo contains an image of Greenville Hall, the oldest building on campus.

“Exploring the history of Thiel College, you will find a tradition of students, graduates, staff, and faculty exemplifying the spirit of philanthropists A. Louis and Barbara Thiel and founder William A. Passavant,” Thiel College President Troy D. VanAken, Ph.D., said. “Thiel College’s 150 years puts it in a place of honor with some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning. Our sesquicentennial is a time for everyone connected to Thiel College to honor the proud history of our College and look to the future.”

Founded in 1866 as a coeducational institution, Thiel College is among 15 percent of the roughly 3,600 institutions of higher learning in the United States older than 150 years.