Girard College’s 175th Anniversary
175 Years of Transforming Lives
From its first day through today, Girard College has provided the resources and opportunities needed for students to thrive and succeed in education and in life. By providing a safe, supportive environment in which students can try, fail, learn, and explore, Girard puts young people on a path to discovering their purpose.
Girard College opened its doors on January 1, 1848, to about 100 students, fulfilling the unprecedented philanthropic vision of Stephen Girard. Over 175 years, more than 22,000 students have been educated at the College, a legacy that grows with each graduating class.
This is an exciting year for our community, as we celebrate 175 years of tradition while reimagining what it means to transform lives through education in the 21st century. By developing resources, expanding partnerships, and making investments in our program and our people, Girard College is poised for growth and success in the coming year and beyond.
There will be plenty of opportunities for you to engage with our students, visit our campus, and be part of the celebration. Look for communications on the following events and more, as we move forward as a #CampusForTheCity and #OneGirard.
Anniversary Year Events
Program Highlight: Black History Month Chapel
The Girard College community celebrates Black History Month with performances, speeches, and spoken word from students and guests.
Program Highlight: 4th Grade Celebrates Pi Day
4th Grade students at Girard College learn about the mathematical constant that is celebrated around the world on March 14.
From the Historical Collections
What did the campus look like in 1848? The daguerreotype above shows the College just six months after opening.
In 1848, the only permanent buildings on campus where those designed by architect Thomas U. Walter, including Founder’s Hall, which served as the original classroom, and the four dormitories flanking it (now called Mariner, Merchant, Allen, and Bordeaux Halls). You can also see the wall and gatehouses, which were part of the original construction.