Celebrating 175 Years

'Continued Quest for Excellence'

• Proclamation From Pennsylvania Sen. Gene Yaw '65, P'15

  I rise today to honor and recognize Bucknell University on its 175th anniversary. One hundred and seventy-five years ago, Pennsylvania governor Francis Shunk, on Feb. 5, 1846, signed the charter for what was then the first Baptist college in the Commonwealth and was known as the University at Lewisburg — an institution comprising a primary school, an Academy and college.

  Interestingly, the primary architect of the institution was a person by the name of Steven Taylor, who was a former professor at Madison University. Madison University is now Colgate University. Taylor eventually left Bucknell and went back to Colgate as the president. This probably explains the intense rivalry between those two universities today. The school's first Commencement was held on Aug. 20, 1851, for a graduating class of seven — men only, of course, at that point. Among the board members attending was James Buchanan, who would then become the 15th President of the United States. Thirty-five years later, the University at Lewisburg was renamed Bucknell University in honor of the benefactor by the name of William Bucknell, whose bold leadership and exemplary generosity assured the future of the institution. Actually, his gift prevented closure of the institution.

  Since 1846 Bucknell University has pushed the boundaries of undergraduate education and actively shaped the world outside Lewisburg. Throughout its history, Bucknell has fostered a diverse and inclusive, supportive academic community. From the opening of its female Institute in 1852 and its first international student graduation in 1864 to the first African American student graduation in 1875, Bucknell has been opening doors to education from the earliest days.

  

  Today, the University boasts over 3,700 undergraduates and graduate students, representing most states and 68 foreign countries. And it has more than 360 faculty members. Additionally, the University has 27 Division I sports teams. Bucknell as more than 54,000 living alumni worldwide who form a close network of loyal Bucknellians around the world. Their successful lives and personal achievements are a testament to the vision of the University's founders, who were dedicated to the pursuit of excellence.

  Mr. President, if I might, I would like to make some personal notes and observations at this point. I, many years ago, was a student at Bucknell. Frankly, I did not do well academically at Bucknell, but as the first member of my family to attend any kind of post-secondary institution, I learned about life and living. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would be participating in an event honoring the institution. Following in the same line, I never envisioned that I would have a daughter who is a Bucknell graduate. And to make life even more unbelievable, I have a granddaughter who will be attending Bucknell as a member of the Class of 2025.

  Mr. President, I will admit that I have one outlier in my family; my son graduated from Colgate University, and considering that a professor from that university was instrumental in planting Bucknell makes for some very interesting family discussion and rivalry. Mr. President, I am again honored today to recognize Bucknell University, honor its heritage and encourage its continued quest for excellence. May its tradition of educating students to lead and serve for a lifetime continue for generations to come. Bucknell University can be very proud of its 175 years, and I am confident that his tradition of excellence will continue to leave a profound mark on Pennsylvania and the world.