Washburn University's Sesquicentennial

In anticipation of Washburn’s sesquicentennial, please join us as we celebrate 150 years of productive, innovative and pioneering achievements. From the founding of the university in 1865, Washburn has evolved to be a quality 21st century institution complemented with a rich history.

The founding principles of the university are best expressed in Washburn’s motto, Non nobis solum, or “not for ourselves alone.” Sesquicentennial activities began in August 2011 and will conclude with a Grand Homecoming celebration in the fall of 2015.

• The 2011-12 academic year focused on the founding and early years, from 1865-1914. Learn something new from the 1865-1914 timeline poster.
• The 2012-13 academic year will focus on growth and tradition-building, from 1915-1965.
• The 2013-14 academic year will honor Washburn's rebuilding and transformation* that occurred between 1966 and 2014.
• The 2014-15 academic year, the university's 150th, will focus on the present and the future.

*The tornado of June 8, 1966 destroyed most campus buildings and left 16 Topekans dead and another 500 injured.

Our theme

The theme of Washburn's Sesquicentennial Celebration is "Non Nobis Solum: Not for ourselves alone." This theme, the University's motto, fully supports Washburn's view that we should contribute to the greater good of humanity, apart from our own interests.