It only happens once every 100 years. And all of you are invited to be a part of it. Everyone who loves Radford University -- students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends from all over the world -- will join in a triumphant year-long Centennial celebration from January 1 – December 31, 2010.
Much has happened since the State Normal and Industrial School for Women opened its doors in 1910. Over the decades, almost 70,000 students have prepared themselves in our classrooms and laboratories. Our professors have fostered advancements in scholarship that have changed the world. And our alumni have forged meaningful careers in business, education, healthcare, criminal justice, government and scores of other areas.
Woven throughout these experiences is a common commitment to service; hence we will rally around that noble virtue as one of the chief pillars of our Centennial. All who are part of the Radford University family are invited to make their own communities a little better through our Service Challenge.
Centennial themed lectures, colloquia, symposia, artistic performances, and other special events will be featured throughout the year. Books, calendars and publications will chronicle our progress. During our March 24, 2010 Charter Day Celebration, one of the most innovative pioneers in socially responsible free enterprise, TOMS Shoes Founder Blake Mycoskie, will join us on campus.
From our beautiful campus overlooking the scenic New River to the corridors of the Virginia General Assembly and beyond, people will celebrate our past, reach out to others, and boldly focus on the exciting century ahead.
We're proud to celebrate 100 years of progress. We're proud to be part of Virginia's national reputation for excellence in higher education. We are inspired, and we're proud to be RU!
