Three years after the Tennessee Legislature passed the General Education Bill in 1909, the University of Memphis, founded as West Tennessee State Normal School, opened its doors for the first time. On September 10, 2024, the University celebrated its 112th birthday with a celebration in the campus University Center.
"The 112th anniversary of our university signifies its longstanding strength as a pillar of our community. The UofM has firmly established itself as one of two flagship public institutions in Tennessee, and we look forward to building upon that as we pursue our vision of being a nationally recognized public research university," President Bill Hardgrave said.
From humble beginnings as a teacher’s college to becoming the second largest university by enrollment in Tennessee, the University of Memphis has stood through the test of time as a prestigious school with deep roots in history.
“I think what I’m excited to see is just the continued growth… [and] continuing to build community here,” said Samantha Seaton, senior social media strategist for the University of Memphis. “I think that’s a big part of what President Hardgrave wants to do.”
The event, located in the University Center Atrium, was celebrated with students receiving free cupcakes with President Hardgrave in attendance. Hundreds of students from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and races came together to celebrate the annual occasion.
“This event today brings so many different people together,” said Seaton. “I love just being able to walk around campus and see so many different walks of life.”
The history of racial inclusion at the University of Memphis began in 1959 with the original Memphis State Eight, a group of African American students who were the first to be admitted to the University since the ruling of Brown v. The Board of Education. On September 18, 1959, the eight were escorted by police to their classes for the first time to the tune of severe media backlash.
Ever since the courageous efforts of those eight paved the way to the university becoming one of the most diverse in Tennessee, the school continues to uphold values of equality, integrity, and action. As stated in the university’s motto: “Imaginari cogitare facere,” meaning, “To imagine, to think, to do”.
"The people — our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends — give me great optimism for the future of our university. It has been an honor to interact with and work alongside our Tiger Family during my two and half years as president and I look forward to many more years of success together,” said Hardgrave.
