Did you ever wonder how the osprey was chosen as the University mascot? Read about all the details in this fun and informative piece by Gary Warner!
View the video of the first UNF commencement ceremony, June 10, 1973. President Thomas G. Carpenter delivered the commencement address to a graduating class of 35 students, and an audience of 400 guests in the UNF main courtyard. The soprano solo, "Hear ye Israel," was performed by Cynthia Valentine, Class of 1974. By virtue of alphabetical standing, Robert Stephen Berry was the first student to graduate from the University. Graduate students receiving master's degrees in education included Betty S. Holzendorf (later Florida Senator) and Bernadine J. Bolden (later UNF professor of education and Vice President of Student Affairs).
This series of historical vignettes highlight significant events and individuals who were pivotal in the establishment and development of the University. The first chapter begins with the establishment of the University:
In recognition of the 35th anniversary of the founding of the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida, Dr. James B. Crooks, Professor Emeritus of the University presents an overview history of the University starting from its first day of classes on October 2, 1972.
The UNF nature trails have played a significant role in campus life. University Archives contains over 500 images showing the development of the trails and lakes over the years. Additionally, the official files of the UNF conservation club, Sawmill Slough, is held in Archives. The image above shows the recognition ceremony naming the UNF nature trails a national recreational trail by the U.S. Dept. of Interior on July 10, 1978.
