150 Years in 150 Words
This fall marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of St. Olaf College in November 1874.
To commemorate our sesquicentennial, we would like to share a promise. In 150 words. Watch the video above — narrated by Associate Professor of Music and St. Olaf Jazz Conductor Joseph Jefferson, Duane Bogne ’25, Associate Dean of Admissions Shannon Cron ’15, and Callista Robertson ’26 — or read it below.
150 years of history. A time to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and push for the progress we know is possible for our future. To commemorate the journey that brought us here, and to look with optimism to the road ahead of us.
We promise to continue to care. Care for our Oles, for our community, for the world, and for our planet.
We also promise to grow … with you. We will continue to embrace change, cultivate innovation, adapt to new challenges, and seek solutions.
And we promise to learn. Because we always have. We know what it takes and where it takes us. Learning requires humility, courage, openness, and forgiveness. It makes us feel vulnerable but also hopeful. It brings us together and pushes us forward.
This promise is our pursuit. It started 150 years ago, it continues today, and it will take us to tomorrow.
These are our 150 words for 150 years. What are yours? Throughout this year, we are inviting Oles to share reflections about their St. Olaf experience. To submit your story, go to 150th.stolaf.edu/share-your-story. You can write or record your story, and submit up to 10 photos from your days on the Hill.
Sharing the untold stories of the people, places, and programs that have made up the fabric of the campus community over the decades is an important part of celebrating the college’s sesquicentennial. The history of St. Olaf is not one story, but many — and we want to hear yours!