Salisbury, MD — When SU community members and visitors cross Centennial Plaza, they won’t just be using a walkway; they will set foot on a physical representation of the University’s first 100 years.
The newly opened brick plaza, with a distinctive fountain visible from Camden Avenue, stands in front of the campus’ first and oldest building, Holloway Hall. It not only serves as new outdoor event space, but commemorates the SU Centennial, marking a century since the University’s official opening on September 7, 1925.
The plaza “represents far more than just a new campus landmark,” said SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre. “It symbolizes 100 years of history, leadership, and perseverance at Salisbury University.”
Fittingly, the structure was inaugurated on the first day of classes of the University’s 101st academic year. The opening event, “Cheers to 100 Years,” celebrated the faculty and staff who spend each day (and often nights) serving the students of SU.
“Just as this plaza stands as a testament to a century of resilience and progress, it also reminds us that our strength as a university has been, and always will be, our people,” said Lepre. “Buildings and landmarks may symbolize our history, but it is the care, compassion, and commitment of our employees that truly sustain our legacy.”
As part of the festivities, Lepre announced a new Employee Emergency Assistance Fund — spearheaded by Amy Luppens, SU development director, and supported by a grant from the University System of Maryland — to assist University workers in times of need.
“We know that even the strongest among us face unexpected challenges,” she said, adding that the initiative is “aimed at helping our people, the very people who make SU so special and who will help launch us into our next 100 years.”
Centennial Plaza was designed by Becker Morgan Group and constructed by the Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., in connection with its ongoing renovation of adjacent Blackwell Hall.
Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at www.salisbury.edu.
