TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Founded in 1887 as a teacher training school, Troy University marked its 139th anniversary Thursday with a campus-wide celebration at the Janice Hawkins Cultural Arts Park.

Students, faculty, staff and administrators gathered for a birthday picnic that included cake, music and giveaways. Cheers of “Happy Birthday, Troy” could be heard throughout the park as attendees recognized the university’s years of operation and growth.

JT Long, an Impact Leader, said the event highlighted the institution’s history and sense of community.

“I think it’s awesome just the fact that being able to celebrate how long Troy has been here,” Long said. “Being able to see generations of students — people that went to Troy now work for Troy — just showing true strength in the Troy community and the university itself and how much it brings to people.”

Over the past 139 years, the university has expanded from its original mission as a normal school into a public institution with multiple campuses and online programs. One visible sign of recent campus development is the newly renovated campus lake, located near the celebration site.

NEW BEGINNINGS: Agreement creates engineering pathway from ESCC to Troy University

University Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. emphasized the institution’s focus on students.

“Our students — you are why we exist, and we want to do everything that we can to make sure that you stand on the platform of success and opportunity,” Hawkins said.

Dean of Student Services Korrie Lynn Williamson said the event reflects the university’s mission to serve students.

“This is what we’re here for as faculty and staff — to serve our students,” Williamson said. “Seeing so many happy faces out here celebrating this wonderful university, cherishing the memories and the moments and hopefully making some — it’s an exciting day.”

As part of this year’s event, the first 139 students in attendance received a Troy University beach towel as a commemorative gift.