Ohio State president: As one, we blaze inspiring trails
The start of each academic year is full of promise as we welcome a new class of outstanding Buckeyes. This year will be exciting and historic. Throughout 2019-20, we will celebrate the university’s 150th anniversary — our sesquicentennial. We have big plans, and I hope all of you will find a way to join in.
(Photo by Jo McCulty ’84, ’94 MA)
For a century and a half, Ohio State has provided limitless opportunities for people and knowledge to intersect and move the world forward. From the first students and professors who walked the dirt paths of what became our Oval to the thousands of students, alumni, faculty and staff who lend their insights, passion and care for humankind to solve challenges at home and around the globe, Buckeyes have always been champions for people and their communities.
In this sesquicentennial year, we’ll convene academic summits with experts to further examine the role of the 21st-century land-grant university. We’ll unveil the Carmen Collection, a compilation of untold stories that amplify the voices of our past. We’ll grant scholarships to 150 Sesquicentennial Student Scholars. And we’ll weave the anniversary theme throughout our annual marquee events — from welcome week to commencement.
The year will be a celebration of all that the people of Ohio State have accomplished — and all that is yet to come. None of it is possible without the friendship, support and incomparable spirit of Buckeyes everywhere.
Ohio State was founded in 1870 as one of America’s great land-grant universities. Despite time and change across our university and around the world, our mission is as clear today as it was 150 years ago: to illuminate a pathway to learning and discovery that changes lives and uplifts society. At the same time, the ways in which we teach, research and live are always evolving — and the university continues to evolve to meet the changing educational needs of our students and to produce knowledge to make the world a better place.
On the pages that follow, you’ll find examples of our university in action: Ohio State research scientists addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including food security and opioid addiction. Staff members, most of them alumni, teaming up with residents and partners to invigorate housing, education and employment on Columbus’ Near East Side. Students volunteering their time during breaks to help communities in need through Buck-I-SERV. And the Wexner Medical Center demonstrating its tremendous scope and impact in treating patients and saving lives.
Our university’s force for good over a century and a half is truly transformative — an incredible legacy that serves to guide our future together as Buckeyes. Please join us as we celebrate our history, honor the present and envision the next 150 years of excellence at The Ohio State University. O-H!
