A new tradition at UNI: The Ringing of the Sesquicentennial Bell
A new tradition at UNI: The Ringing of the Sesquicentennial Bell
This fall, a new sound will join the familiar rhythms of campus life — one that signals not just the changing seasons, but a deep connection to 150 years of history at the University of Northern Iowa.
When the Verdin Company brought their bell foundry on wheels to campus in the fall of 2022 to kick off the renovation of the iconic Campanile, a new commemorative bell was cast alongside nine bronze bells that were added to the carillon, the instrument contained within the Campanile. This commemorative bell marks the exciting blend of tradition and transformation.
Now, it officially has a name: The Sesquicentennial Bell.
And on Monday, Sept. 29, it will ring for the very first time as the University of Northern Iowa formally kicks off its 150th anniversary celebration.
The First Ringing of the Sesquicentennial Bell will take place at Campanile Plaza, with music beginning at 10:30 a.m. and a short program at 11 a.m. All students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members are invited to attend what organizers hope will become a lasting tradition.
“It is important that we mark this moment, not just with speeches or banners, but with a lasting symbol that can be heard and felt,” said UNI President Mark Nook. “This bell celebrating our 150th year will become part of the rhythm of campus life starting this fall.”
The event will officially dedicate the bell as the Sesquicentennial Bell and introduce a new UNI tradition: ringing the bell to mark momentous occasions on campus each year.
The ceremony will include a carillon concert and reflections from President Mark Nook and others representing the past, present and future of the university. Attendees at the casting of the Sesquicentennial Bell three years ago participated in its casting by passing ingots of brass that were melted down to create the bell. At the ceremony this fall, attendees will be invited to be among the first to ring the bell as they pass through the plaza, adding their own note to this historic beginning.
Following the ringing, the celebration continues with a free campus lunch on Lawther Field for students, faculty and staff, a lively student organization carnival, and a chance to participate in a group “150” photo commemorating the launch of the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration.
More details will be announced in the weeks ahead — this is UNI’s moment to come together, reflect, celebrate and ring in the next 150 years.