Celebrate your transformation from student to alumnus!
Friday, May 3
Noon
Swanson Arch
Cap and gown is encouraged but not required!
Families and friends are welcome!
Each fall, new students pass through the Swanson Arch the original entrance to ISU’s first building to campus in a spirited ceremony.
In May and December, graduates look to the future by passing back through the arch away from campus. This symbolizes entering the campus as new students and exiting as Bengal alumni.
Swanson Arch
The Swanson Arch was part of the original Swanson Hall built in 1902. It was the entryway into the Academy of Idaho's first building. The building was named after Theodore Swanson who was a member of the original board of trustees. Swanson Hall was known as "Old Ad" because it served initially as the Administration Building and classrooms.
Swanson Hall, constructed of stone and brick with no structural steel and a lava rock foundation, was topped with a huge Gothic roof. It was condemned and razed in 1973. The entry arch was preserved as a monument. Thousands of students have passed through this arch, which preserves a major part of Idaho State University's history.
