Recognizing Indiana University

Floor Speech

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Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my alma mater, Indiana University, as we recognize and celebrate the Bicentennial Anniversary of this hallowed institution. As a beacon of world-class academic excellence, Indiana University has given the world a multitude of dynamic and impactful leaders in a vast array of disciplines. Both the United States and the international community have benefited from the influence of the legions of Indiana University alumni spanning the globe.

Shortly after gaining statehood, the Indiana General Assembly passed legislation mandating the creation of a state seminary institution in 1820. By 1822 construction on the earliest Indiana State Seminary buildings was underway in Bloomington, Indiana. In 1828, the State Seminary would be renamed Indiana College. Under the early leadership of inaugural President Andrew Wylie, whose term lasted from 1829 to 1851, the institution in Bloomington expanded its educational curriculum and transformed from Indiana College to Indiana University in 1829. Under the leadership of President David Starr Jordan, who served from 1884 to 1891, Indiana University saw major increases in enrollment, with the institution of the elective system. This multiplied the education offerings and solidified Indiana University's reputation as one of the premiere educational institutions in the United States.

As Indiana University closed out the 19th century, it became a leader in making higher education more accessible. As early as 1867, it became one of the earliest public universities in the country to admit women on an equal basis with men. Throughout the 20th century, Indiana University experienced massive changes under the direction of legendary President Herman B. Wells whose term lasted from 1938 to 1962. Total enrollment surpassed the 30,000 student threshold. Much of this increase coincided with the new opportunities available to military veterans as a result of the G.I. Bill. Guided by the leadership of President Wells, the university pursued an effort to become one of the foremost internationally recognized centers for research and scholarship. This expansion based a greater emphasis on academic research in many different areas of study leading to further advancements in the understanding of both our natural world and the human condition.

Through these past 200 years, Hoosier students have displayed their excellence in the academic, athletic and cultural arenas, amassing numerous Rhodes Scholar, Marshall Scholar, and MacArthur Fellow honors in the classroom, as well as multiple Big Ten Conference and NCAA Championships in Men's and Women's sports. Over the last 200 years many notable Hoosiers have left their mark on our society. The university has produced world political leaders, cabinet members, titans of industry and commerce, cutting-edge scientific researchers, artists, Olympians, musicians, and entertainers.

In addition to the world-renowned undergraduate opportunities available at Indiana University, there are also over 400 graduate degrees and certificates that Indiana University offers students. Many of Indiana University's graduate schools have become industry leaders in the areas of medicine, law, business, music, media, education, politics, and the arts. The alumni of the graduate schools have also had a long and integral hand in the development of Indiana's well respected public and private sectors. The impact of research conducted by post-graduate students and faculty at Indiana University has been felt throughout the world, benefiting untold millions.

Now well into the 21st century, Indiana University, under the direction of the 18th President Michael McRobbie, has continued its steadfast charge to be a national leader in public education. Guided by President McRobbie, the university has undergone the largest academic restructuring in its history, leading to the creation of 10 new schools. Indiana University has also been dutifully supported by the many Indiana Governors and Indiana General Assembly Members over the past two centuries. Hoosier lawmakers continue to further the Indiana University commitment of providing students a world-class education.

Over 690,000 students and alumni of the 9 campuses throughout the State of Indiana have been well served by forward-thinking university administration officials. The Board of Trustees, Chancellors, Administration, Faculty, and Alumni Association members have been integral to the immense academic and educational footprint that Indiana University has developed and maintained. This leadership has allowed Indiana University to develop over 16 schools and 550 individual degree programs, keeping Indiana University on the cutting edge of student development and academic excellence.

I join all current and former Hoosiers in wishing our beloved alma mater a happy Bicentennial Anniversary. Hail to Old I.U.

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