EMU Celebrates 90 Years

All music is from the early Mennonite Hour era and can be found on the CD "Sing Them Over Again.". DVDs are for sale for $5 each. For more information, contact Charlene Davis at (540) 432-4203.

EMU has woven the theme, "Celebrate the Vision," into activities throughout the '07-'08 school year highlighting its 90th academic year.

Highlights included a 30-minute video (at right) which debuted at Homecoming and features historical photos and audio, excerpts from Jay B. Landis baccalaureate address from 2006, and interviews with Hubert Pellman, Margaret Gehman, Donella Clemmens, Evelyn Maust and Justus Holsinger.

The celebration began last summer with the installation of lightpole banners around central campus featuring the 90th anniversary logo as well as distribution of the 2007-08 activities wall calendar in July, which features historic photos juxtaposed with current photos in similar campus settings.

Flip through EMU's 2007-08 wall calendar, which commemorates the college's 90th anniversary Celebration at Homecoming

A "Celebration of Song and Sound" highlighted the activities of homecoming and family weekend, Oct. 12-14. Kenneth J. Nafziger, professor of music, directed a program celebrating 90 years of music at the university - from strictly a cappella hymns to incorporating instruments and varied styles.

Homecoming weekend will also included showings of a 30-minute video, produced last summer, featuring interviews with older EMU alumni on their reflections on the past as well as dreams for the future of the university.

Crossroads Special Edition

A special 90th anniversary edition of the university magazine "Crossroads" features a lengthy section on the history of EMU grounds and facilities and the stories of dedicated faculty, staff and supporters who made the emergence of the campus here in the valley a possibility, despite incredible obstacles.

"The story of EMU over these past 90 years is inspiring to all of us responsible to carry on the vision," said EMU President Loren Swartzendruber.

"Our alumni are making incredible contributions all over the world. We hope that the celebrations this year will encourage the current generation of students to commit themselves to 'walk humbly with God' in their decisions about vocation and service."