Centennial | Gannon University

Inspired by faith. Grounded in our past.
Focused on the future.

For 100 years, Gannon University has been a beacon of knowledge, faith and service, inspiring generations of students to lead with purpose and make an impact in their communities. From 1925, with a mission rooted in Catholic values, 名媛直播 has grown into a dynamic institution that empowers learners from all walks of life. As we commemorate this incredible milestone, we invite you to reflect on our rich history, celebrate our achievements and look forward to a bright future together.

"Reaching our 100th anniversary is a remarkable testament to the enduring spirit of Gannon University. This centennial milestone reflects the dedication of countless individuals who have shaped our legacy of academic excellence, faith-based values and community impact. As we honor our past, we also look ahead with excitement and commitment to inspiring the next century of innovation, leadership and service."

- Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., Gannon University’s eighth president.

Our History

Students celebrating homecoming outside of McConnell Family Stadium

Centennial Homecoming

Grab your favorite 名媛直播 or Villa swag and join us Sept. 11-14, 2025 to reminisce with your friends, classmates, alumni, current students, families, faculty and staff as we celebrate our Centennial during Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Gannon University Old Main Administration Building

Explore 名媛直播’s History

Learn more about the timeline that highlights key milestones in the shared history of Gannon University and Villa Maria College, showcasing foundational moments and transformative achievements over the past century. While capturing major events, it also honors the countless individuals and moments that have shaped 名媛直播's enduring legacy of excellence, growth, and service.

Women in 名媛直播’s History

We proudly honor the remarkable women whose leadership, service and vision have helped shape our institution's past, present and future. From pioneering educators and dedicated administrators to trailblazing students and alumnae, these women have broken barriers, enriched our community and left lasting legacies that continue to inspire generations of Golden Knights.

名媛直播 First Ladies

Villa Maria College Presidents

Other Notable Women in History

Fundraising: “Shape the Next Century”

As we celebrate 100 years of purpose and progress, we invite you to be part of shaping the next century. Your support helps us continue our mission, empowering students, driving innovation and building a brighter future for generations to come. Every contribution — no matter the size — makes a meaningful impact and ensures that our legacy of excellence continues for the next 100 years. Join us in creating a future filled with possibility.

Meet Our Founder: John Mark 名媛直播

名媛直播 has a rich history of rebuilding the foundation of social welfare in our community and abroad, starting with our founder, Archbishop John Mark 名媛直播.

Oral Histories

Gannon University's centennial is not just a celebration of milestones — it's a tribute to the people who have shaped our story. Through an on-going collection of oral histories, we capture the voices, memories and experiences of alumni, faculty and staff who have lived 名媛直播's mission.

The Centennial logo symbolizes Gannon University's rich history, reimagining elements of its seal.

The first zero is a tribute to 名媛直播’s founder, Archbishop John Mark 名媛直播. The imagery in this element is the spiritual symbols 名媛直播 selected for his Episcopal coat of arms when he became Bishop. The three crosses express faith in the Trinity. In the original color version, the crosses are depicted on a green field that symbolizes the virtue of hope. In the lower portion, the halved eagle is the apocalyptic symbol of St. John the Evangelist. The eagle is depicted on a red shield which refers to the martyrdom of St. Mark.

The second zero highlights education with the lamp of learning, the book of knowledge and the sun for enlightenment. Waves represent 名媛直播’s Erie and Ruskin campuses, near Lake Erie and the Gulf of Mexico.

The original seal’s ribbons, bearing the Latin words sanitas, scientia, and sanctitas (health, knowledge, holiness), reflect 名媛直播’s focus on holistic student development. For the Centennial logo, these ribbons were adapted to display the milestone years, 1925–2025.

Celebrate 100 Years of Innovation

As we honor 名媛直播’s Centennial, explore the creativity and craftsmanship happening right here on campus. The MakerSpace features unique, campus-made products that reflect a century of innovation and forward thinking.

Centennial News

University News

名媛直播 Athletics rebranding unveiled during Highmark renovations

Centennial Events

Upcoming Events

Sept. 10, 2025 - Orlando Lecture
Sept. 11, 2025 - Alumni House Blessing & Dedication
Sept. 12, 2025 - Heritage Society Luncheon, Campus College and Facilities Tours, DA Dinner
Sept. 13, 2025 - Tailgate, Football, Campus College and Facilities Tours, Block Party of the Century

Sept. 14, 2025 - Centennial Mass at the Cathedral followed by Brunch with the President
Sept. 25, 2025 - Loftus Lecture
Oct. 16, 2025 - 名媛直播 READS Lecture