DSU kicked off Centennial year activities with a rousing event at the BPACCLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University launched its year-long Centennial Celebration on Monday, November 10, commemorating 100 years since opening as Delta State Teachers College in 1925.
The public was invited to a special afternoon of events, starting with an opening ceremony at 1:00 p.m. in the Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC) Auditorium, followed by a reception at 2:00 p.m. in the BPAC Lobby.
The University Choir performed a stirring rendition of “Still I Rise.”
DSU alum James Forte emceed the ceremony, which included video messages from all past DSU presidents or their family members. Mary Parson, accompanied by Dr. Robin Webb, led the audience in singing the university’s “Alma Mater,” while the DSU University Choir, with Ronnie Wilson on piano, performed “Still I Rise.”
DSU President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis reflected on the university’s history and shared an optimistic vision for its future: “I don’t worry about the future because I trust our students. I respect our students. Everyone who supports and loves Delta State knows that our students always have a shot. So, take your shot, and make your shot.”
The ceremony concluded with the DSU Marching Band and the choir performing the university fight song, transitioning into musicians from several Delta Music Institute (DMI) bands playing “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang as balloons dropped and confetti filled the air.
SGA members and groups from around campus served refreshments during the reception.
Guests at the reception enjoyed cake, cupcakes, cookies, a chocolate fountain, and punch with the DSU community before moving to the Flag Plaza for the Time Capsule Ceremony.
Dr. Ennis welcomed attendees to the Flag Plaza, which has been upgraded with benches and the university seal courtesy of donations from the Dedicated Statesmen Association. DSU’s 5th President, Dr. Kent Wyatt, and former SGA President Cary Karlson presented the time capsule buried during the university’s 50th anniversary in 1975. The capsule held mementos from DSU’s past, including a Lady Statesmen basketball program from the 1976 national championship team—signed by Coach Margaret Wade and the starters—along with campus publications, a $3 speeding ticket, and sports memorabilia.
DSU’s 5th President, Dr. Kent Wyatt and 1975 SGA President Cary Karlson retrieving the time capsule that they buried during the university’s 50th anniversary.
Current SGA President Hayden Kirkhart then added items collected by the Dedicated Statesmen Association to a new Centennial Time Capsule, to be opened at DSU’s 150th anniversary in 2075. The new capsule includes jerseys from all athletic teams (featuring a game jersey from the 2004 baseball national championship team), campus photos and publications, event t-shirts, and other souvenirs from the past 50 years.
The ceremony also unveiled DSU’s Centennial logo—a tribute to the university’s legacy and future. The design features the iconic Delta symbol in multiple forms and carries the theme #ForeverGreen.
DSU President Dr. Dan Ennis and SGA President Hayden Kirkhart filled the new time capsule with items gathered by the Dedicated Statesmen Association.
Throughout the Centennial year, Delta State will host events and activities to honor its history and engage students, alumni, and the community. Centennial merchandise and a special 100th anniversary publication will be available for purchase starting in Fall 2025.
A full calendar of Centennial events is available on the university’s Centennial webpage at deltastate.edu/centennial. DSU invites all faculty, staff, students, and supporters to join in celebrating a century of excellence.
