This spring, Tech started its Centennial celebration with Charter Day to mark the 100th anniversary of Tennessee Polytechnic Institute. The celebrations continue this year with a variety of events and projects.
Hundreds from the community participated in the commemoration, so many that Derryberry Hall Auditorium was standing room only and attendees ate birthday cupcakes so quickly that catering staff had trouble refilling the trays.
“We know Tennessee Tech would not exist today if not for the support of the Upper Cumberland community 100 years ago,” said President Phil Oldham. “As always, our community showed its lasting commitment to our university. The audience included families of our university’s founders and so many others for whom TTU has been part of their lives and histories.”
The celebration included a skit in which area actors and current students reenacted TPI’s controversial founding and told short stories of notable alumni.
“We don’t get enough chances to celebrate the significant milestones of our state,” said Gov. Bill Haslam. “Tech is the story of education in Tennessee.”
The Centennial celebration continues with the Downtown Kick Off Sept. 18. For more information and a calendar of events, visit tntech.edu/centennial. V