Lincoln University Kicks Off 150th Anniversary Celebration

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa.

More than 600 students, faculty, administrators, staff, local officials and visitors helped kick off Lincoln University's 150th anniversary celebration last month. The historically Black university was founded in 1854 and has graduated more than 14,000 young men and women.

"Today, with a solid foundation, unprecedented support from our graduates, and great aspirations, we begin a yearlong celebration recognizing the contributions of those who have made this day possible," said Lincoln President Ivory Nelson, marking the occasion.

"If our future looks bright, it is because of the dedication and hard work of so many who are with us today and so many who have come before — educators, alumni, and friends of this university," Nelson said.

The opening program was presented in conjunction with the school's honors convocation saluting the university's highest achieving students.

Keynote speaker Tony Brown encouraged the students to continue their success, but to do so with confidence and surety.

"As you move forward, learn to look inward. The good that you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway," said Brown, who is a veteran journalist and author. "It's what you have inside. The moment you accept yourself is the moment you become happy. The first thing you want to do is be who you are. That's self-empowerment."

Other events held during the celebration's opening week included a debate between Lincoln University honor students and students from Brigham Young University's Hawaii campus. The students debated the topic, "Resolved: Affirmative Action Should End." Both institutions are partners of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for the Study of the Presidency.

The sesquicentennial celebration will last through May 2004 and will encompass a variety of special events involving those affiliated with the university, as well as its surrounding community.