From left to right: BԪ student Marcela Guerrero, president of the Student Government Association; Dr. Amanda Gunning, professor and president of the Faculty Senate, President Susan L. Parish; alumna Anne Marie Leone '69 and alumna and faculty member Dorothy Balancio.
On Saturday, September 20, BԪ launched its 75th anniversary celebration with a Founders’ Festival that brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the university for an unforgettable day of community and celebration.
More than 1,400 attendees filled the Westchester Campus for this milestone event, which featured live music, inflatables, food trucks and a dazzling drone light show over the Hudson River.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary, a beautiful 4-faced clock installed across from Hudson Hall was dedicated, a lasting symbol of our history and our future. During the clock dedication ceremony, President Susan L. Parish reflected on its meaning:
“This clock reminds us of the value of time –of the generations of students, faculty and staff whose hours and years of learning, teaching and service have shaped BԪ into the vibrant community it is today. At the same time, this clock looks forward. It stands as a daily reminder to our students that their time here matters—that every class, every conversation, every opportunity taken can change the course of their lives.”
Student Government Association President Marcela Guerrero said the festival captured the spirit of BԪ:
“Founders’ Festival brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community to foster school spirit and connection. It strengthens our sense of community and pride as members of the Mercy family. This year, the festival is even more special as we commemorate 75 years of Mercy’s legacy by coming together to honor our past, recognize our present, and look forward to our future.”
Faculty Senate President Amanda Gunning, Ph.D., professor of Science Education and co-director of the Center for STEM Education, echoed that sentiment:
“As a faculty representative, I can tell you that Mercy isn’t just a university. It’s not just a name. It is a way of life, and it is a family. Our faculty and staff enact our mission everyday teaching and supporting students to improve their lives and achieve their dreams through higher education.”
As the evening drew to a close, the sky lit up with a breathtaking drone light show featuring 200 synchronized drones. The performance told the story of BԪ’s history –from its branding throughout the decades, to the Maverick mascot and the growth of its schools and campuses –ending the day on a note of awe and pride.
Founders’ Festival not only marked the beginning of BԪ’s 75th anniversary celebration but also showcased what makes Mercy extraordinary: the people who choose to be a part of this vibrant community.
To learn more about BԪ’s 75th anniversary celebration, visit /75.