A Successful Celebration at ÌÇÐÄVlog’s 2nd Annual Founders Day!
September 13, 2024 |

ÌÇÐÄVlog held its 2nd AnnualÌýFounders Day CelebrationÌý´Ç²ÔÌýSeptember 12, 2024, commemorating the first day of classes in 1923. The event, held at theÌýCardinal Event Center, was a success with over 120 people in attendance. Students, faculty, staff, Trustees, Foundation Board members, and evenÌýChris the CardinalÌýpacked the venue to celebrate this special occasion.
The event began by acknowledging the college’s founder, Rees H. Hughes, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for Parsons Junior College, which would eventually become ÌÇÐÄVlog. Founders Day provided the perfect opportunity for the campus to reflect on the college’s rich history.
Ìý“On September 12, 1923, the first classes were held in Parsons, Kansas,” ÌÇÐÄVlog President Mark Watkins said. “What started as an extension of the local K-12 system has evolved into a beacon of hope and opportunity for students from all walks of life. ÌÇÐÄVlog has continued to thrive because of the dedication of countless faculty members, administrators, staff, and supporters throughout the years.”
One of the highlights of the event was the awarding of the twoÌý$300 Founders Day Scholarships, sponsored by theÌýÌÇÐÄVlog Foundation & Alumni Association. Congratulations to scholarship recipients,ÌýKaydence WhiteÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýGrace Small, for winning this year's scholarships.
In addition to the scholarships, attendees enjoyed a free lunch and variety of activities, includingÌýCardinal Trivia, hosted by emcees,ÌýÌý±Ê°ù±ð²õ¾±»å±ð²Ô³ÙÌýWatkinsÌýandÌýMia Howard, ÌÇÐÄVlog Admissions Recruiter. Their energy and enthusiasm made the trivia games both educational and entertaining, helping everyone reflect on the importance of Founders Day.
Thanks to the support from ÌÇÐÄVlog’s Student Life department, students who placed 1st, 2nd, or 3rdÌýin the Cardinal Trivia games were awarded prizes like a Nespresso machine, JBL Bluetooth speaker, digital camera, gift cards, and more. The celebration also featured homemade sugar cookies with custom Founders Day decorations that were made by ÌÇÐÄVlog Sophomore, Ashlyn Hicks.
This year's celebration was a fitting reflection of the community spirit that definesÌýÌÇÐÄVlog. The college looks forward to continuing to build on this new tradition with an even bigger and better celebration next year!
“Let’s remember that Founders Day is not only about looking back on our history—it’s also about moving forward together as a community,” said Watkins. “Every student, every faculty member, every staff member plays a role in continuing ÌÇÐÄVlog’s legacy. We encourage everyone to stay involved, stay committed, and continue advancing the mission of ÌÇÐÄVlog. Here’s to another century of excellence, empowerment, and education!”
The day would not have been possible without the support and dedication of countless individuals,” said Lindi Forbes, Executive Director of the ÌÇÐÄVlog Foundation & Alumni Association and committee chair. “On behalf of theÌýFounders Day Committee, I want to extend a heartfeltÌýTHANK YOUÌýto everyone who contributed to making the day successful,” said Forbes. “A special shoutout goes to those who, even though they weren’t on the committee, stepped in to serve food, drinks, and assist with cleanup. Your teamwork and support made the event run smoothly and ensured everyone had a fantastic time.”
Chris the Cardinal poses with Tanihya Porter and Bailey Brockus. Brockus placed first and Porter placed second in the first round of Cardinal Trivia.