Delta State University to launch Centennial Celebration on September 15
Cleveland, MS (08/28/2025) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4678
Email: criddle@deltastate.edu
Delta State University to launch Centennial Celebration on September 15
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."
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.
Cutline: Dr. Kent Wyatt and SGA President Cary Karlson lower the time capsule into place during 1975's celebration of Delta State's 50th anniversary.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
About the Centennial Committee: The Centennial Committee is co-chaired by Dr. Michelle Roberts, Special Assistant to the President and Jennifer Ennis, First Lady of Delta State University. The committee was formed in 2024 to prepare for the events of Delta State's Centennial Celebration, and is comprised of Delta State staff and faculty, both past and present, as well as community members dedicated to fostering the relationship between Delta State and the Cleveland community.