It’s that time of year again! On Wednesday, Feb. 8, the Oglethorpe University community will celebrate Oglethorpe Day, a beloved tradition among students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Oglethorpe Day honors 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).
Join us on the quad at 12:45 p.m. for snacks and refreshments as a few of our student athletes prepare to run the 33rd-annual Petrels of Fire race, which will begin at 1 p.m. sharp. This race against the clock challenges participants to complete a lap around the quad and reach the finish line before the bell tower chimes stop ringing — a feat only accomplished once in Oglethorpe history.
After the race, the celebration will move to the Conant Performing Arts Center for a student-led panel that will discuss how the university has impacted them and the ways that the community can come together. The panel will be led by SGA President Ashrakat Hassan ’24 and will feature Kayla Maze ’26 (Freshman Class Senator); Catherine Hartwig ’24 (Sophomore Class Senator); and Marc Collins ’23 (Senior Class President).
“We chose to highlight different parts of the campus community and share what they mean to us,” says Hassan, “From Greek Life to Athletics to Advancement and OU’s successful philanthropic efforts, we wanted to write a love letter to Oglethorpe. It deserves that much for all it has given us.”
Don’t forget to wear your school colors and to show your Petrel Pride on social media using the hashtag #OglethorpeDay2023!
Classes will begin on Wednesday, Feb. 1. As students, faculty and staff settle in to the new year, the Oglethorpe Day celebration will be an excellent way to get in the spirit for another semester!
