Introduction:
Located in Wayne, Nebraska, Wayne State College is a small public college that has a long and fascinating history. Established in 1891 as the Nebraska Normal College, Wayne State College has grown over the years to become one of the top colleges in the state, known for its strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and vibrant campus life. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the fun facts about Wayne State College, from its history and traditions to its notable alumni and unique features.
A Brief History of Wayne State College
Wayne State College has a rich history that spans over a century. The college was founded in 1891 as the Nebraska Normal College, with the goal of providing training for teachers in rural Nebraska. In the early years, the college offered a two-year program that focused on education and agriculture. In 1911, the college became a four-year institution and was renamed Wayne State Normal School.
Over the years, Wayne State College expanded its academic programs, adding majors in areas like business, humanities, and social sciences. In 1963, the school was renamed Wayne State College, reflecting its growing focus on liberal arts education. Today, the college offers more than 130 programs of study, including majors in education, business, health sciences, and the arts.
Notable Alumni of Wayne State College
Wayne State College has produced many notable alumni over the years, including politicians, business leaders, and athletes. Here are just a few of the college’s most famous graduates:
- Frank B. Morrison – The 32nd Governor of Nebraska, Morrison graduated from Wayne State College in 1921 with a degree in education.
- Tim Burke – A former Major League Baseball pitcher, Burke graduated from Wayne State College in 1968 and went on to play for the Houston Astros, Oakland A’s, and Milwaukee Brewers.
- John I. Jenkins – The current president of the University of Notre Dame, Jenkins earned his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Wayne State College in 1976.
- Helen Boosalis – The first woman elected mayor of Lincoln, Nebraska, Boosalis graduated from Wayne State College in 1944 and went on to serve as the president of the National League of Cities.
Unique Features of Wayne State College
Wayne State College has many unique features that set it apart from other colleges and universities. Here are just a few of the things that make Wayne State College special:
- Willow Bowl – Located at the center of campus, Willow Bowl is a natural amphitheater that serves as a popular gathering place for students and faculty. The bowl is surrounded by trees and features a stage that is used for concerts and other events.
- Cat in the Cage – One of the most beloved traditions at Wayne State College is the Cat in the Cage. The tradition began in the 1960s, when a student named Rich Eymann brought a live bobcat to a football game as a good luck charm. Today, a student dressed in a bobcat costume is locked in a cage on the sidelines during home football games.
- The Wayne Stater – Wayne State College has a student-run newspaper called The Wayne Stater. Founded in 1907, the paper has a long history of providing news and information to the campus community.
- National Champion Speech Team – Wayne State College has a nationally recognized speech team that has won numerous awards and championships over the years. The team competes in events like debate, public speaking, and oral interpretation.
Conclusion:
In this blog post, we’ve explored some of the fun facts about Wayne State College, from its history and traditions to its notable alumni and unique features. Whether you’re a current student, a prospective student, or simply curious about this small college in rural Nebraska, we hope that you’ve learned something new and interesting about Wayne State College. From its beginnings as a teacher’s college to its current status as a top liberal arts institution, Wayne State College has a long and proud history of providing students with an excellent education and a vibrant campus community. Whether you’re interested in sports, the arts, or academic pursuits, there’s something for everyone at Wayne State College. So why not plan a visit and discover all that this unique and welcoming college has to offer?