CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University will officially kick off its yearlong Centennial Celebration on Monday, September 15 – exactly 100 years after the institution opened its doors as Delta State Teachers College in 1925. The public is invited to attend a celebratory program at 1:00 p.m. in the Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC), followed by a reception in the Capwell Lobby of the BPAC.
As part of the festivities, a special ceremony will follow at 3:00 p.m. on the university quadrangle, next to the flag plaza. During this ceremony, Delta State will display the contents of the time capsule that was buried during the university’s 50th anniversary celebration in 1975 and will also present the contents that will go into the new time capsule. The ceremony will also include the unveiling of DSU’s Centennial logo—a visual tribute to both the university’s legacy and its future. The design incorporates the iconic Delta symbol in multiple forms and features the theme #ForeverGreen.
DSU First Lady Jennifer Ennis, co-chair of the Centennial Committee said, “The Centennial Celebration is a testament to the dedication and spirit of our entire Delta State community. Countless individuals have poured their hearts into crafting a yearlong tribute that honors our past and inspires our future. Their hard work ensures this milestone is celebrated with the pride and passion Delta State embodies.”
Dr. Kent Wyatt and SGA President Cary Karlson lower the time capsule into place during 1975’s celebration of Delta State’s 50th anniversary.
DSU President Emeritus Dr. Kent Wyatt serves as the Honorary Chairman of the Centennial Committee and said that he is proud to be part of commemorating such a historic milestone.
He said, “Delta State University boasts a storied legacy, and it is both appropriate and inspiring that we honor the remarkable progress of our institution while poised to embrace the vibrant future that awaits our cherished community.”
Throughout the Centennial year, Delta State will host a variety of events and activities that honor its legacy and engage students, alumni, and the community. Centennial-themed merchandise and a special 100th anniversary publication will be available for purchase starting in Fall 2025.
“While this Centennial Celebration is a time to reflect on our rich history and accomplishments over the past 100 years, it’s also an opportunity to look ahead and focus on Delta State’s future,” said Dr. Michelle Roberts, co-chair of the Centennial Committee, noting that the commemoration underscores both the university’s legacy of achievement and its ongoing commitment to progress.
DSU President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis said, “Delta State University’s Centennial Celebration marks a historic milestone, reflecting a century of transformative education and community impact since our founding in 1925. As we unveil the 1975 time capsule and dedicate a new one, we honor our enduring legacy while embracing a future of innovation and excellence.”
A calendar of Centennial events may be found on the Centennial webpage at deltastate.edu/centennial. The university encourages all supporters to save the date for the September 15 kickoff and join the celebration of a century of excellence.
