Founded in 1925, the University of Miami, called the “cardboard college” in its early days for the material used to separate classes in an unfinished hotel, has blossomed into an institution recognized for academic excellence, research and innovation, and a close-knit community. Now the University is a global force for breakthrough research, educational excellence, and life-changing opportunities, with more than 200,000 alumni worldwide. The Centennial Celebration invites the entire Canes community to honor the past and celebrate a bright future ahead.
“Over a year ago, the Centennial Honorary Committee set out to create a celebration that would bring our community together in a meaningful way,” said Laurie Silvers, chair of the Centennial Honorary Committee and immediate past chair of the University’s Board of Trustees. “Every step of the way, we have been guided by the spirit of connection and pride that defines the University of Miami community. Now, as we approach this milestone, we look forward to seeing it all come to life and celebrating with Canes everywhere.”
On Tuesday, April 8, the University will host a momentous birthday celebration, marking 100 years since the University’s charter date. This exciting event will be part of a full week of unforgettable festivities for the community, honoring a century of excellence.
“The University of Miami’s centennial has finally arrived! This is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and we want every Cane—whether in South Florida or across the country—to be part of it. From the events happening here in Coral Gables to gatherings of our ’Canes Communities nationwide, we encourage every Cane to celebrate this moment with us,” said Patricia A. Whitely, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement and chair of the Centennial Working Group.
The celebration will feature a variety of events, from the Canes Carnival, an annual event organized by Hurricane Productions, the University’s student-run programming board, with rides and games to the Centennial Block Party with delicious food, beginning at 5 p.m.
The Centennial Celebration Concert, organized by Shelly Berg, dean of the Frost School of Music, will feature a lineup of Frost School artists from throughout the years performing their most famous songs. Some notable participants include Bruce Hornsby, Pat Metheny, Joshua Henry, Jon Secada, Ben Folds, and Idarose.
The evening will culminate with an elaborate fireworks display over Lake Osceola.
Additionally, several areas of the University will host their own celebrations on April 8, highlighting the outstanding work and accomplishments their alumni made throughout the years. There will also be a variety of exciting activities happening across campuses throughout the entire week, including religious celebrations honoring the milestone. In addition to events happening on our campuses, Canes alumni across the country are encouraged to participate in their local ’Canes Community receptions.
A full schedule of centennial events can be found below.
FRIDAY, APRIL 4:
Centennial Shabbat celebrates 100 years of the University of Miami
6-8 p.m. at UM Hillel's Braman Miller Center for Jewish Student Life
TUESDAY, APRIL 8:
Frost School Centennial Luncheon
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Knight Center for Music Innovation
Student Affairs and Alumni Engagement Centennial Event
noon-1:30 p.m., Florence Hecht Great Room at Centennial Village
Join us for a fireside chat with former University staff members honoring a century of student support.
Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science Centennial Celebration
noon-2 p.m., Walton Smith Commons, Marine Science Center Bldg.
Dean Roni Avissar will honor Eric J. Barron, recipient of the Rosenstiel School Centennial Medal.
School of Nursing and Health Studies Centennial Open House
2:30-5:00 p.m. M. Christine Schwartz Center for Nursing and Health Studies
Celebrate at a Centennial Open House. Join Dean Hudson Santos and enjoy fun foods, drinks, and music, and be among the first to rock the SONHS exclusive centennial swag. Sign-up for a tour of S.H.A.R.E.: Simulation Hospital Advancing Research and Education and prepare to be amazed.
College of Arts and Sciences Centennial Celebration
4-5:30 p.m., Department of Theatre Arts, 1231 Dickinson Drive
School of Communication 40th Anniversary
3-5 p.m., Bill Cosford Cinema
Celebrating our Communication School: Past, Present, and Future with master of ceremony Javier Morgado, B.S.C. ’99.
School of Law Alumni Reception
4-6 p.m., The Hilarie Bass Bricks
Gather on The Hilarie Bass Bricks for pre-celebration at the School of Law ahead of the University Centennial Celebration. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided. No RSVP required.
Canes Carnival
5-9 p.m., Foote University Green
An annual spring event organized by Hurricane Productions that will feature rides, games, and music.
Centennial Block Party
5-9 p.m., Miller Circle and Lakeside Patio
Free food and beverage stations will be available from 6-8:30 p.m.
Centennial Concert and Fireworks Show
7-9 p.m., Lakeside Patio
The Centennial Concert will feature notable University alumni, videos about the University’s history, and ’Canes Communities celebrations nationwide. This momentous event will conclude with a fireworks show over Lake Osceola.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11:
Centennial Mass with Archbishop Thomas Wenski
6:30-7:30 p.m., Donna E. Shalala Student Center Ballrooms
UCatholic is hosting the 100th Anniversary Mass for the University with a special Centennial Mass and reception on campus. Archbishop Thomas Wenski, the Archbishop of Miami, is the main celebrant for this joyful occasion.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12:
4 p.m., Cobb Stadium
