Look How Far We’ve Come! Celebrating 100 Years of Transformation

Look how far we've come! Celebrating 100 years of transformation

On Sept. 4, 1923, Rowan University opened its doors as Glassboro Normal School, then a training ground for South Jersey’s elementary school teachers. 

A century later, the institution is among the nation's top 100 public research universities—and it’s the third fastest-growing, serving 22,000 students. 

Now, it’s time to look back and celebrate how far we’ve come. Within this site, you can explore the many stories behind Rowan’s transformative history. Here, you will find memories shared by faculty, staff and alumni; an extensive collection of photographs, memorabilia, articles and videos; a timeline of significant events and turning points; our collection of history books; and a Centennial Shop for those who might enjoy their own mementoes of Rowan’s first 100 years. You are welcome to share your own favorite stories and images, too. 

The University-wide Centennial Committee will roll out more highlights, event information and limited-edition commemoratives as we officially launch the year’s programming this fall.

Be sure to return again and again as new content is added. There’s so much to uncover and much more to come in the months ahead. And if you have memories or memorabilia to share, please tell us. This is your celebration, too. Happy Centennial, Rowan Community!