September 8, 2017
Dear Members of the Carnegie Mellon University Community,
In 1967, the Carnegie Institute of Technology — founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900 — and the Mellon Institute — founded by Andrew and Richard Mellon in 1913 — merged, creating the institution that we know as Carnegie Mellon University, a comprehensive, world-class research university. This year, we launch our celebration of this 50th anniversary, focused on the theme “For the Founders.”
“For the Founders” honors the vision of these great leaders and the joining of their legacies. It also celebrates YOU. Throughout the anniversary, we will proudly recognize the faculty, alumni, students and staff whose discoveries and innovations are transforming our society, and whose inventions, artistic endeavors and activism make them founders that define their generations.
During Homecoming weekend on November 10 and 11, I invite you to celebrate the founder in us all — the inventors, the makers, the artists, the builders, the storytellers and the entrepreneurs who make this university truly exceptional. We’re planning a series of special programs, including the “Founders Exposition,” a special anniversary convocation, a student exhibition, academic presentations, lectures, a campus-wide picnic and, of course, the Homecoming tailgate and game. We have even cancelled classes on November 10 to mark this occasion and to facilitate greater participation in festivities.
You will soon see the anniversary celebration come alive on our campuses, with activities and fanfare to start as early as next week. For those in Pittsburgh, I invite you to join a kickoff event on Tuesday, Sept. 12. from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. on the Cut. Stop by the 50th anniversary tent, where you can enjoy refreshments, play games and learn about this special year. The first 1,500 attendees will receive a limited edition 50th giveaway.
Details on upcoming events will be available soon at cmu.edu/50.
I look forward to joining with each of you to celebrate CMU and the accomplishments of this outstanding community.
Warm regards,
Farnam Jahanian
Interim President