CINCINNATI — The University of Cincinnati looks pretty good for its age.
The university turns 200 this year, and for such a big birthday, the school has planned plenty of special events all year long.
"We are in the middle of a year-long celebration of the University of Cincinnati's bicentennial," said Jennifer Heisey, executive director of UC's alumni association. "We have invited the whole city of Cincinnati and people have come far and wide, to celebrate the bicentennial with us."
To kick all of that off, UC celebrated community week this week, providing a plethora of opportunities to learn about the school, many different educational subjects, and its history. Saturday's schedule of events spanned from lectures informing attendees about estate planning, how to recognize and address the signs of suicidal tendencies, the chemistry of cosmetics, manufacturing trends and disruptions, and more.
Interactive exhibits and educational opportunities weren't in short supply either, for families with younger members looking for something to do.
Attendees could meet and learn about trained service dogs, create family crafts, play and test video games produced by UC's Game Lab program, learn the best ways to recycle, and more.
The night ended with a gathering in McMicken Commons, with live music, food, drinks, games and a spectacular light show.
"They were very thoughtful about how to turn their art form into something that told our story for the University of Cincinnati," said Heisey. "And we had a huge crowd of Bearcats here tonight."
But as the University looks back on and celebrates its past, it also has its sights set on what the next 200 years could bring. Heisey said organizers and administration are celebrating the history of the 200-year-old university, but they don't stop thinking of the future either.
The next celebration for UC's bicentennial is in November.
