Commemorating 150 Years of Colorado College
For a century and a half, Colorado College has fostered intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and a deep appreciation for doing things differently. From its founding in 1874, CC has continually evolved, developing a community of diverse minds and innovative thinkers.
Open to all sexes and races from the beginning? Proudly! A center for innovative thought, creative pedagogy, and social change? Always! A launching point for world-famous artists, diplomats, writers, athletes, explorers, scientists, politicians, musicians, scholars, and business leaders? Absolutely! CC has embraced a spirit of adventure, encouraging students to journey into the great outdoors and engage in rigorous intellectual pursuits.
As we commemorate this remarkable journey, we recognize the generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members who have contributed to the college's enduring legacy of excellence. We invite you to share your Colorado College story or propose a Nano Block as we look forward to the next 150 years. Happy 150th, Colorado College!
Colorado College Day
Happy Colorado College Day, Tigers! - Video by Julia Fuller
February 9, 1874 marks the official founding day of Colorado College and the year 2024 marks our Sesquicentennial anniversary. Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a proclamation commemorating "Colorado College Sesquicentennial Day" throughout the state. Colorado Springs Mayor Blessing "Yemi" Mobolade and City Council President Randy Helms also proclaim February 9 as Colorado College Day throughout the city.
Save the Date
Celebrate 150 years of CC at Homecoming 2024, Nov. 1-2, 2024
CC’s 150th Extravaganza Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 from 8-11 p.m. in CC’s Ed Robson Arena
CC Day 2025, February 1-9, 2025
Sesquicentennial Events
- February 9, 2024
Colorado College Day - May 7, 2024, 12:15 p.m.
Honoring CC's Commitment to our Students - June 2-21, 2024
Summer Music Festival's 40th Season - July 27, 2024, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Neighborhood Ice Skate Fest - August 15, 2024
Fall Conference (CC faculty and staff) - November 1-2, 2024
Homecoming - November 2, 2024, 8-11 p.m.
150th Extravaganza - February 21-23, 2025
Family Weekend
Planning a 150th Event? See our 150th Partner Toolkit (CC login required)
Campus community members line up for Josh & John's Ice Cream at the Scoop Bus, helping celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first day of classes at CC, which were held on May 6, 1874. Photo by Owen Craft / Colorado College (click for more 150th photos)
A Nano Block
What topic could you teach to the broader CC community in 3.5 minutes? A Nano Block is a 3.5 minute video or podcast that highlights our innovation for creative pedagogy. If you have a Nano Block idea, we would love to hear from you!
Nano Blocks
What topic could you teach to the CC community in 3.5 minutes? We want to hear your Nano Blocks as part of our community commemoration of CC's 150th year.
News Stories
Previous Messages
CC's Sesquicentennial in the News
- The Gazette: The story behind the founding of Colorado College, 150 years ago | Cronin and Loevy
- KXRM Colorado Springs: Colorado College Celebrates 150th
- KTVD 9 News Denver Shares CC's 150th Celebration Story
- KTVD 9 News Mornings Runs the CC 150th Celebration Story
- KXRM FOX 21 News Shares CC's 150th "CC Day" Celebration