ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ

Skip to Main Content

ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ Centennial Header - Desktop

Hide Video Centennial Logo

Inspired by faith. Grounded in our past.
Focused on the future.

For 100 years, Gannon University has been a beacon of knowledge, faith and service, inspiring generations of students to lead with purpose and make an impact in their communities. From 1925, with a mission rooted in Catholic values, ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ has grown into a dynamic institution that empowers learners from all walks of life. As we commemorate this incredible milestone, we invite you to reflect on our rich history, celebrate our achievements and look forward to a bright future together.

Dr. Walter Iwanenko Inauguration Speech

"Reaching our 100th anniversary is a remarkable testament to the enduring spirit of Gannon University. This centennial milestone reflects the dedication of countless individuals who have shaped our legacy of academic excellence, faith-based values and community impact. As we honor our past, we also look ahead with excitement and commitment to inspiring the next century of innovation, leadership and service."

 - Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., Gannon University’s eighth president.

Gannon University Old Main Administration Building

Explore ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’s History

Learn more about the timeline that highlights key milestones in the shared history of Gannon University and Villa Maria College, showcasing foundational moments and transformative achievements over the past century. While capturing major events, it also honors the countless individuals and moments that have shaped ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ's enduring legacy of excellence, growth, and service.

Graduate Commencement 2024

Fundraising: “Shape the Next Century”

As we celebrate 100 years of purpose and progress, we invite you to be part of shaping the next century. Your support helps us continue our mission, empowering students, driving innovation and building a brighter future for generations to come. Every contribution — no matter the size — makes a meaningful impact and ensures that our legacy of excellence continues for the next 100 years. Join us in creating a future filled with possibility.

John Mark ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ

Meet Our Founder: John Mark ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ

ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ has a rich history of rebuilding the foundation of social welfare in our community and abroad, starting with our founder, Archbishop John Mark ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ.

Oral Histories

Gannon University's centennial is not just a celebration of milestones — it's a tribute to the people who have shaped our story. Through an on-going collection of oral histories, we capture the voices, memories and experiences of alumni, faculty and staff who have lived ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ's mission.

Centennial Logo - Color

The Centennial logo symbolizes Gannon University's rich history, reimagining elements of its seal.

The first zero is a tribute to ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’s founder, Archbishop John Mark ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ. The imagery in this element is the spiritual symbols ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ selected for his Episcopal coat of arms when he became Bishop. The three crosses express faith in the Trinity. In the original color version, the crosses are depicted on a green field that symbolizes the virtue of hope. In the lower portion, the halved eagle is the apocalyptic symbol of St. John the Evangelist. The eagle is depicted on a red shield which refers to the martyrdom of St. Mark.

The second zero highlights education with the lamp of learning, the book of knowledge and the sun for enlightenment. Waves represent ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’s Erie and Ruskin campuses, near Lake Erie and the Gulf of Mexico.

The original seal’s ribbons, bearing the Latin words sanitas, scientia, and sanctitas (health, knowledge, holiness), reflect ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’s focus on holistic student development. For the Centennial logo, these ribbons were adapted to display the milestone years, 1925–2025.

 

Centennial Events

Upcoming Events

  • June 26, 2025 - Villa Maria College Mass and Luncheon
  • July 8, 2025 - ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ Knight at 8 Great Tuesdays
  • Sept. 10, 2025 - Orlando Lecture
  • Sept. 11, 2025 - Alumni House Blessing & Dedication
  • Sept. 12, 2025 - Heritage Society Luncheon, Campus College and Facilities Tours, DA Dinner
  • Sept. 13, 2025 - Tailgate, Football, Campus College and Facilities Tours, Block Party of the Century
  • Sept. 14, 2025 - Centennial Mass at the Cathedral followed by Brunch with the President
  • Sept. 25, 2025 - Loftus Lecture
  • Oct. 16, 2025 - ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ READS Lecture

Past Events

  • Jan. 15, 2025 @ 10:30 am - Highmark Blessing & Dedication
  • Jan. 15, 2025 @ 5:30 pm - Women's Basketball vs Slippery Rock
  • Jan. 15, 2025 @ 7:30 pm - Men's Basketball vs Slippery Rock
  • Feb. 8, 2025 - Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards
  • Feb. 19, 2025 - Ruskin Campus, Orlando Lecture
  • Feb. 20, 2025 - Ruskin Campus Celebratory Mass & Luncheon
  • March 13, 2025 - Loftus Lecture - Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel
  • April 24, 2025 @ 8 pm - Centennial Day of Giving Kickoff
  • April 25, 2025 - Centennial Scholarship Dinner
  • May 7, 2025 - Celebrating the Sisters of St. Joseph Mass and Reception
  • May 10, 2025 - Erie Campus, Centennial Commencement
  • May 17, 2025 - Ruskin Campus, Centennial Commencement

Centennial Homecoming Sponsors


John and Colleen Bloomstine


To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Nancy Bird, Vice President for University Advancement, at bird013@gannon.edu or 814-871-5435.