This September, Northern Kentucky University will celebrate a milestone in honoring the 50th anniversary of its first graduating class. On March 14, 1968, then Kentucky Governor Louie B. Nunn signed legislation establishing Northern Kentucky State College as the state’s seventh four-year public institution. It would be a handful of years before NKSC would achieve university status and become the institution we know today, but this is how the story begins—with a community that lacked access to an accredited four-year facility.
College education in the region was first limited to classes offered through educational extension services provided by the University of Kentucky. This Covington hub was called Northern Community College and was focused on two-year degrees. As enrollment swelled, community leaders and local politicians recognized the demand for a four-year institution in the area. In response to this need, Northern Kentucky State College was created.
“In the early 70s, all the students were commuters, many were first-generation college students and most were grateful for a chance to earn a college degree,” shares NKU English professor Dr. Robert Wallace.
"From a small state college to a dynamic university, this 50-year reunion feels as much about celebrating NKU’s success as [celebrating] those students [who started] the journey."
The inaugural students were pioneers, leading the way to higher education for the future generations.
“The whole experience of going to a four-year college was new and challenging,” recounted John Lucas (‘72, ’79). “Everything was a ‘first’ at our new Northern Kentucky State College.”
NKSC hosted its first commencement ceremony in May 1973. By that time, the Salmon P. Chase Law School of Cincinnati merged with NKSC. While the first commencement was offered by NKSC, NKU was established shortly after in 1976. The growth that took place during the university’s first decade was unmatched. Now, NKU celebrates another momentous event rooted in this history—a 50th anniversary.
“Our college years in the late 60s and early 70s were fraught with war and civil unrest. Yet a small state college emerged from the chaos, and it’s been rewarding to be part of it from the beginning,” reflected Barry Kienzle (’73). “From a small state college to a dynamic university, this 50-year reunion feels as much about celebrating NKU’s success as [celebrating] those students [who started] the journey.”
Lucas agrees.
“As with all anniversaries, a celebration of a university represents, in some manner, a time to reflect on an accomplishment. A wedding anniversary, a work anniversary, a high school or college anniversary,” he says. “Fifty years since NKU's very first commencement exercise is one of those special times to be recognized.”
