As the first quarter of the 21st century draws to a close, major centennial milestones are filling our calendars. This month, we turn the spotlight to the University of Miami (UM), which planted its roots in Coral Gables in 1925 and has since grown into a premier university recognized in Florida and beyond. From its humble beginnings with just 646 students in 1926 to its status as Florida’s third-ranked university and a powerhouse in research, UM’s incredible journey highlights its lasting influence and impact.
To mark this momentous occasion, the Hurricanes — aka ‘Canes, the nickname for UM’s athletic teams and a term used for students, faculty members and alumni — are hosting a public birthday bash on April 8. Themed “The Future is U” and led by UM’s Centennial Honorary Committee, the event will honor the school’s extraordinary growth, its expansive network of more than 200,000 alumni and its bold vision for the future.
The festivities will kick off with ‘Canes Carnival from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring exhilarating rides, games and live music on UM’s scenic Foote Green. The Centennial Block Party will take place simultaneously, offering free food stations and live entertainment around the Student Center Complex.
To cap off the evening, the Centennial Concert, scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m., will showcase performances by Frost School of Music alumni and video tributes highlighting UM’s legacy. In spectacular fashion, a breathtaking fireworks display over Lake Osceola, at the heart of campus, will light up the sky — the perfect ending to a historic celebration.
For more information, visit 100.miami.edu.