Administrative/Biographical History
The tradition of Founders Day at the University of North Dakota (UND) began in 1904, twenty one years after UND was founded. The first observance was marked by an intra-campus debate for the Gansl Medal, orations by students, musical performances, addresses by President Merrifield and invited guests, and a girls' basketball game. The official date of February 27 was selected because this was the date in 1883 when the bill to establish UND was signed by Governor Ordway of Dakota Territory. Through the years, the ceremonies to mark Founders Day have changed. In recent years, the event has been celebrated with a dinner, awards for faculty and departments, and recognition of retirees.
