College of Saint Mary 100-Year Celebration Kicks Off with Homecoming Weekend
OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary will mark its 100th anniversary, beginning Sept. 12, with a yearlong celebration through August 2024.
CSM was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1923 as a two-year teacher’s college. The University was previously housed from 1923-1952 at 15th and Castelar streets. In November 1950, the Sisters purchased 80 acres of land next to 72nd Street and what would become Mercy Road. The land was split evenly between CSM and the Sisters of Mercy. Construction began in 1953, and the University’s first building – Walsh Hall – was completed in 1955. By 1958, CSM was a fully accredited four-year university.
Today, CSM offers more than 35 undergraduate majors, seven masters and doctoral programs and 11 athletic teams.
“For the last century, College of Saint Mary has empowered and developed generations of women to be leaders in their communities,” CSM President Heather Smith said. “And as we begin the next 100 years, the University remains dedicated to championing academic excellence and making a difference in our students' lives.”
CSM will kick off its yearlong celebration with its annual homecoming Sept. 22-24 on campus. Events are open to all.
“Homecoming is one of my favorite times of the year,” said Terri Campbell, vice president of alumnae and donor relations. “This year is extra special as we kick off the yearlong celebration of College of Saint Mary’s first century. I hope all alumnae will consider returning to observe this momentous occasion.”
Some of the weekend events include a celebration marking 100 years of Teacher Education at CSM, the 2023 Alumnae Achievement Awards Luncheon, and a 100-year yard party featuring music from DJ Phil.
“We have a terrific schedule of events planned this year,” said Sara Titus, director of planned giving and stewardship. “The annual Alumnae Art Show on Friday evening is a favorite, the Flames swim, volleyball and softball teams will have a meet, game and scrimmage, and Jeff Spencer, associate professor of art, will host Monet and Mimosas in the new Hollis and Helen Baright Art Studio. We will end the weekend with Sunday Mass and the Figures of Wisdom brunch where we will honor the 50th year class. There will be many opportunities for alumnae to gather and renew their friendships.”
The full list of homecoming events includes:
Friday, Sept. 22
100 Years of Teacher Education | 4-6 p.m. | Walsh Hall, Third Floor
Tour the renovated teacher-ed suite, including the new Peg Hoffman Petersen ’68 Sensory Room.
Alumnae & Community Art Show | 5-7 p.m. | Hillmer Art Gallery
Enjoy live music and wine tasting while viewing engaging artwork by CSM alumnae, staff and friends.
100-Year Yardy | 7-8:30 p.m. | Campus Green between Walsh and Hill-Macaluso Halls
Join us for our 100-year yard party! Bring a lawn chair or blanket; music from DJ Phil.
Saturday, Sept. 23
Campus Tours | 9-11:30 a.m.
Given by request.
Morning Reflection | 9:30-9:45 a.m. | Hollis and Helen Baright Art Studio
Led by Liz Ludvik, director of spirituality, service & social justice.
Monet and Mimosas | 9:45-11 a.m. | Hollis and Helen Baright Art Studio
Unleash your inner Monet as Jeff Spencer, associate professor of art, leads a cork and canvas painting experience.
Flames Swim Meet | 10 a.m. | Lied Fitness Center
Cheer on the Flames in this dual meet against the University of Jamestown.
Alumnae Achievement Awards Luncheon | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Ward Conference Center
Celebrate our alumnae as we recognize the 2023 Alumnae Achievement Awardees.
Saint Mary’s Review | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Hillmer Art Gallery
Get your copy of the special 100-year anniversary edition.
Flames Volleyball Game | 1:30 p.m. (JV), 3 p.m. (V) | Lied Fitness Center
Cheer on the Flames as they match up against Dakota Wesleyan University.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical | Omaha Community Playhouse
Tony Award-winning true story of singer/songwriter Carole King’s life.
Sept. 23-24
Campus Bookstore Open | Noon-5 p.m.
Located inside Mercy Hall, the CSM Campus Store will be open during Homecoming weekend.
Sunday, Sept. 24
Homecoming Mass | 9:30 a.m. | Our Lady of Mercy Chapel, Walsh Hall
All are welcome.
Figures of Wisdom Brunch | 10:30 a.m. | Hillmer Art Gallery
Join us as the Class of 1973 – on their 50th year reunion -- are inducted as CSM Figures of Wisdom.
Flames Softball Game | 1 p.m. | CSM Softball Field, southeast corner of campus
The Flames square off against Bellevue University in this home scrimmage.
Must RSVP for events by Sept. 1.
