Fifty years ago the University established a campus on the former Vanderbilt Twombly estate in Madison, N.J. Beginning in September 2008, the College at Florham will mark this golden anniversary with a yearlong celebration.

The 50th Anniversary Committee, chaired by College at Florham Provost Kenneth Greene, was formed in October. Faculty and staff members Joan Desilets, health/physical education (Flor); Maria Webb, assistant director, College at Florham library; Eleanor Friedl, reference librarian, College at Florham library; William Klika, Jr., director of athletics (Flor); Okang McBride, director of alumni relations (Metro); Marilyn Rye, English/communications, associate campus provost and director, University Honors (Flor); Scott Giglio, assistant director of public relations (Flor); Richard Turick, chair, visual/performing arts (Flor); Lisa Thomson, assistant director, student life (Flor); and Peter Marion, director, recreation facilities management (Flor), serve on the committee as well as student and alumni representatives.

“We want to make this a very special year,” said Greene. “Starting with the 1950s, our goal is to highlight each decade, showcase the progress and growth of the campus, celebrate our history and have fun.”

A 50th anniversary logo and campus banners, under development, will be reminders of the celebration. Using the music and news of each decade, a video will serve as a backdrop for campus highlights, and a rotating photo exhibit in the library will draw on the University photo archives. Outstanding films of each decade will be featured in a film festival and at least one of the 2008–2009 theater offerings will be part of the anniversary celebration.

Trivia contests, an antique car show, a time capsule and tree planting are also on the agenda. The Office of Alumni Relations is heading an “Oral History” project as well as planning a dinner-dance.

Friends of Florham are moving forward on a major project for the celebration. The group has hired an architect to design three new exterior doors for Hennessy Hall (Mansion). Friends of Florham President Emma Joy Dana said the new doors “will maintain the dignity of the mansion while ensuring the safety of students and guests.” When all three doors are replaced, the façade will closely resemble the original look of the building.

In addition, the Friends of Florham will also present a special program of the music of the ’50s on October 26 with the vocal group “The Ten.”

“The committee welcomes suggestions,” said Greene. “We want to involve the entire campus, and I encourage everyone to be a part of this special time in the life of the College at Florham.” Send your suggestions to Susan Durkin, assistant to campus provost (Flor), at durkin@fdu.edu.

February 2008

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Flor =
College at Florham, Madison, N.J.

Metro =
Metropolitan Campus, Teaneck, N.J.

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