University of North Alabama celebrates 196 years

The University of North Alabama marked 196 years of service to the state this past Monday, using its annual Founders’ Day celebration to officially launch a multi-year countdown to its bicentennial in 2030.

Founded on January 11, 1830, UNA holds the distinction of being Alabama’s first publicly chartered four-year institution of higher education. University leaders said this year’s observance was especially significant as it kicked off preparations for the school’s 200th anniversary.

“It is important that we set aside a day to remember our founding, a day that set in motion the centuries of academic excellence that have followed,” UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts said. “This year, in particular, is special as it serves as the launch of our official run-up to our Bicentennial in 2030 and the commemoration of our role as Alabama’s first four-year public higher education institution.”

UNA’s Founders’ Day tradition began in 2020 as a way to share the university’s history with students, faculty and the surrounding community.

The institution was originally located on LaGrange Mountain in Colbert County before relocating to Florence in 1864, where it was re-incorporated as Florence Wesleyan University. Several name changes followed before the University of North Alabama name was officially adopted in 1974.

This year’s Founders’ Day programming also highlighted other milestones, including the 50th anniversary of the Briggs Family Department of Entertainment Industry. Students participated in campus activities, including decorating commemorative Founders’ Day canvas bags.

Work toward the bicentennial has been underway for months, led by Dr. Minnette Ellis, dean of students and executive director of University Priorities, and Dr. Sean Jacobson, assistant professor of history.

“Our committee has been meeting for almost a year as we prepare for that big anniversary,” Ellis said. “We are eager to incorporate a variety of facets into the celebration that will take place over multiple years and will be open to both the campus and the larger community.”

University officials said details about bicentennial events and initiatives will be announced as planning continues in the lead-up to January 2030.