In 1891, the University of La Verne opened with 76 students and eight courses in a converted Victorian hotel next to a railroad station.

Today, the nationally-ranked university serves more than 8,700 students, has 74,000 alumni, and offers four doctoral, 18 masters, and 55 undergraduate programs across 10 Southern California campuses.

It has been an era of remarkable growth, and the campus is celebrating its milestone 125th anniversary throughout the academic year with a series of community events, performances, and galas.

“Leos, students, University of La Verne community, it is our 125th anniversary and this is your year,” President Devorah Lieberman proclaimed during a recent kickoff event. “Let’s all make it filled with purpose. Let’s live our mission.”

The university opened as Lordsburg College in what was then called the town of Lordsburg. When residents voted in 1917 to change the town’s name to La Verne, the college followed, adopting the name La Verne College. It officially became the University of La Verne in 1977.

City leaders joined the university this fall as it launched its anniversary celebration by unveiling a commemorative plaque and historically-themed landscaping outside of Founders Hall. Other events are continuing throughout the year.

The College of Arts and Sciences created a performing and visual arts series, Lyceum, in honor of the anniversary. Lyceum includes a rich and eclectic lineup of concerts, exhibitions and guest speakers.

Alumni will join the celebration as they return to campus Oct. 14-16 for homecoming weekend.

The university is publishing a book, Generations of Transforming Lives: The University of La Verne, documenting its heritage. It will land in bookstores in late fall, with proceeds supporting student scholarships.

Founders Day in April will include appearances by current and past university leaders, as well as music and a fireworks show.

And throughout the year, the campus will honor 125 Influential Individuals responsible for the growth and success of the university. A second group of 125 Notable Alumni will also be honored for outstanding achievements during their careers.

Submitted by University of La Verne. For more information, visit laverne.edu/125.