Campus Life

Oglethorpe Day 2021 to be a socially-distant but spirited celebration

Oglethorpe Day will be a little different this year — but we’ll still feel the spirit!

Oglethorpe Day is a yearly tradition honoring the lasting legacy of the university’s namesake, General James Edward Oglethorpe.  A philanthropist, military leader, and member of Parliament, Oglethorpe was regarded as one of Britain’s most active 18th century humanitarians. This day marks the anniversary of the arrival of Oglethorpe and the first colonists in Georgia in 1733. It is on Oglethorpe Day that we are reminded of the motto of the Georgia colony trustees: Non sibi sed aliis (Not for self, but for others).

Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m., members of the Oglethorpe community are invited to attend this year’s virtual celebration on Facebook Live. Wear your favorite Oglethorpe spirit wear, sit back and enjoy this year’s celebration — including the 31st annual Petrels of Fire race and an address from President Nick Ladany.

Students, staff and faculty alike are encouraged to post their Oglethorpe spirit wear to social media using the hashtag #OglethorpeDay2021. The best and most spirited posts have the chance to win a special prize from the Student Government Association.

Additionally, SGA President Taylor Roberts ’21 will give a brief announcement about the decennial time capsule that was sealed just last year. As we all know, the year 2020 took a drastic turn just after the time capsule was sealed away with memorabilia from students across the community. Now, Campus Life will be partnering with the SGA to make the time capsule look a little bit more like 2020.

For those students on campus for spring semester, keep an eye out for a special Oglethorpe Day treat in the dining hall.

For alumni, there will be a virtual get-together in celebration of this annual tradition at 7 p.m. Be sure to stop by for fun and music brought to you by the Oglethorpe University Alumni Association.

Classes will begin on Monday, Feb. 8. As students, staff and faculty settle in to routine of the new year, the Oglethorpe Day celebration will be an excellent way to get in the spirit for another semester!

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