Joint Resolution Marks 40th Anniversary of the University

By Pamela DiSalvo Lepley
Division of University Relations

A Virginia Senate Joint Resolution has designated July 1, 2008, as Virginia Commonwealth University Day in the Commonwealth to commemorate the university’s 40th anniversary.

The resolution, introduced by state Sen. Donald McEachin, acknowledges the 1968 merger of the Medical College of Virginia and Richmond Professional Institute that created Virginia Commonwealth University, at 32,000 students the state’s largest public university.

“Virginia Commonwealth University is recognized as a leader in teaching, research, public service and patient care for the City of Richmond, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States,” the resolution states.

VCU Day will kick off a yearlong celebration of the university’s anniversary, which is planned around the theme “Fortieth and Forward.”

“In 40 short years, VCU has grown to become a remarkable, major institution of higher education with a preeminent medical center and a presence around the world,” said Eugene P. Trani, Ph.D., who has served as VCU’s president since 1990. “While we will fondly reminisce about our first 40 years, our celebration this year also will focus on our future as a top urban university.”

The anniversary also will be commemorated with the installation of historical markers and sculptures on both campuses. A university-wide celebration with the Richmond community is planned for Oct. 24-25. An anniversary committee is planning other events and commemorations to be held throughout the 2008-2009 academic year.

To read the General Assembly’s VCU Day resolution and for more information about VCU’s 40th anniversary, visit http://www.40th.vcu.edu/index.html.