Two celebrations on Tuesday marked the 50th anniversary of the legislative signing that would form The Evergreen State College. On campus, students, staff, and faculty gathered to reflect on the history and future of the institution.

Governor Daniel J. Evans signs the legislation that would form The Evergreen State College. Evans would later serve as college president.

At the state Capitol, Governor Jay Inslee commended Evergreen’s innovative approach to education and read this proclamation to commemorate the occasion,

“WHEREAS, Evergreen aspires to offer an outstanding education to all Washingtonians, including those with low income, students of color, first-generation baccalaureate earners, veterans, students with a disability, LGBTQ students and those of non-traditional age; and

WHEREAS, Evergreen alumni distinguish themselves at the highest levels in politics, the arts, business, teaching, science and environmental sustainability, contributing to our state’s dynamism and high quality of life;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim March 21, 2017 as

Evergreen @ 50: Legislative Launch Day

in Washington, and I urge all people in our state to join me in this special observance.

Signed this 21^st day of March, 2017″

Governor Jay Inslee

See photos from the event and share your own memories of Evergreen @ 50 in the comment section below!

The celebration doesn’t stop here, join us at Return to Evergreen November 3-5, 2017 as we look back at 50 years of outstanding education and distinguished alumni.