Note: This message was originally sent on April 30, 2024
Fifty years ago, the first-ever environmentally themed World’s Fair (previous ones had been more technology focused) brought 5.6 million people to the banks of the Spokane River in what is now known as Riverfront Park. Gonzaga University was there, offering parking and housing for fair visitors. Then Gonzaga President Bernard J. Coughlin, S.J., was honored with a plaque for his exceptional support of Expo ’74 from President of the Exposition King Cole (pictured below).
As the region celebrates the golden jubilee of this important event in the history of the Inland Northwest, Gonzaga once again plans to be there. Numerous projects have been in the works – all designed to create learning experiences for our students and the community. Here are two examples - Students from the history and theatre departments will present a “Readers’ Theatre” featuring a history of the fair’s evolution from inception to impact at sites around Spokane in May. This exciting multi-disciplinary collaboration is truly a team effort, underwritten by a generous Gonzaga family.
Another exciting manifestation of the University’s community partnerships unfolding during Expo ’74’s 50th anniversary celebrations involves Gonzaga students studying history and education guiding students from Spokane Public Schools’ fourth-grade classes on tours of Riverfront Park (pictured above), connecting them with the history of their hometown. Read more about the impact of these field trips here.
Most of all, just as the region did back in 1974, Gonzaga is looking toward the future eagerly with great anticipation. The strategic plans and initiatives laid out for the University will have a significant impact in shaping the future of Spokane, the Pacific Northwest, our nation and world. From Gonzaga’s Tech Hub partnership to the Institute for Climate, Water and the Environment and the Institute for Informatics and Applied Technology and so much more, the future is being formed in the Inland Northwest with Jesuit principles and values leading the way.
One more golden anniversary to celebrate in 2024 is Gonzaga University’s Class of 1974, who will be inducted into the “Gold Club,” a special alumni group for those who are 50 or more years beyond graduation. I encourage you to raise a glass with me in honor of these amazing Zags whose impact spans the last five decades. Thank you for keeping connected to your alma mater!