Dodtransbicentennial, doctransbicentennial, septaquintaguinquecentennial, quartoseptcentennial

Scholars may debate the appropriate Latin term for a 175th anniversary. But by any name, Hollins has reason to celebrate this year as we commemorate our 175th anniversary. We are presenting a yearlong series of programs and activities that honor our rich history, and we invite all alumnae and friends to join us.

Our festivities will kick off with a campus picnic on August 30, continue through the academic year, and culminate with reunion on June 2-4, 2017. Highlights of the year include the following outstanding speakers:

• Olympia Snowe, U.S. Senator, October 6, 2016, 7:30 p.m.
• Donna Brazile, political strategist and author, November 14, 2016, 7 p.m.
• Gwen Ifill, PBS NewsHour co-anchor and managing editor, March 4, 2017, 3 p.m.

In addition, I encourage you to visit our new 175th anniversary webpage often (www.hollins.edu/175) for news, special events, and other information related to our celebration. The webpage includes a list of 175 distinguished alumnae and their accomplishments, along with 175 moments in Hollins’ history. You can read some of those highlights on the following pages.

As I reflect on this milestone, I cannot help but be impressed with how Hollins has flourished and remained strong, finding the will to overcome difficult moments in American history that affected our students and faculty. Through the Great Depression, two World Wars, significant societal change, and contemporary challenges, Hollins has always found a way not only to endure, but to thrive. May it always be so.

We trace our roots to a young mathematics professor who was committed to offering young women the same rigorous education as that afforded to young men. From our founding in 1842, Hollins has evolved to the small university we are today, continuing to offer a rigorous liberal arts education to women in a nondenominational setting, complemented by eight coed graduate programs. During the course of our 175 years, the opportunities extended to Hollins students have prepared them well for an ever-changing world. More than ever, and especially during our 175th year, we are reminded of our motto, Levavi Oculos. Celebrate with us!