Kicking things off in style

St. Scholastica launched its Centennial Celebration January 26-29 with a weekend of concerts, carnivals, congregation and reflection.

Kick-off Rally | Thurs., Jan. 26

The weekend started on Thursday with a rally in Mitchell Auditorium. The percussion ensemble performed. Sisters, faculty and staff shared thoughts about the founding of St. Scholastica, Ann Elliott led the crowd in cheers and a rendition of Vivat! Vivat! St. Scholastica, and we announced one of the largest contest prizes in St. Scholastica history: a free 4 credit course, 100 second shopping spree in the College Bookstore, and lunch with President Goodwin.

Beethoven's Nightmare | Fri., Jan. 27

On Friday, we hosted an all-school dance in Somer's Lounge with the world's only all-deaf rock band, Beethoven's Nightmare. The 300 or so in attendance were totally rocked as the group performed, answered questions, and stuck around to hang out afterwards.

Winter Carnival | Sat., Jan. 28

Most winters, by the end of January Duluth would be long-since covered in a thick blanket of snow. This year, we've had grass poking up most days since last fall. Old man winter came through for our carnival, though, giving us a few inches on Friday night and Saturday. It was enough to have a great time in.

With horse-drawn hay rides, dogsled demonstrations from John Beargrease Sled Dog Race mushers, music by the Kool 101.7 van, hot chocolate, live music, and ice sculptor and (believe it or not!) other delights, a great time was had by all in attendence.

In the evening, Bill Bastian "re-gnarlified" opera, giving his inimitiable musical approach to a genre sometimes thought of as anything by "gnarly". Watch the entire performance here.

Mass and Traveling Exhibit Unveiling | Sun., Jan. 29

By the time Sunday morning rolled around, hearts and minds were in a more contemplative place. Father Graham shared his thoughts about how what seems important in the moment and what actually is important after the passage of time. Sr. Lois Eckes, Prioress of the St. Scholastica Monastery, shared her thoughts on the College's Centennial as well, along with Ann Elliott, Chair of the Board of Trustees Mary Ives, and others from the St. Scholastica community.

Afterwards, the Centennial Traveling Exhibit was unveiled. The exhibit documents the history of the institution and features vintage photographs, quotes, and a narrative of highlights from the College's past.

Community Involvement

St. Scholastica would not have thrived for the last century without the help and support of the Duluth community. Once again, they came through for us, helping us kick off our birthday celebration.

News coverage of the events: