BEAVER FALLS, Pa. – An idea sparked to life on April 20, 1848 in Northwood, Ohio when Geneva Hall first opened its doors. Now, 160 years later, that spark has become a strong flame that has helped to shed light to countless lives educated in the Christian tradition of the Reformed Presbyterian faith.
In celebration of the 160th anniversary of its founding, Geneva College – which moved to Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania 32 years after it opened in Northwood – will host a variety of activities throughout the year. The college is introducing a special “160 years of Christ-centered education” logo to present the school′s tradition and heritage.
A major event in the year-long celebration will be taking a flame from Northwood to Beaver Falls. This approximately 220-mile trip symbolizes the journey of the institution. Students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, friends of the college and members of the Beaver Falls community are invited to carry the flame during the journey, culminating in a relay from the Pennsylvania/Ohio border to Beaver Falls.
“Geneva′s Passing the Flame” will cap off a weekend of Founder′s Day festivities on the college campus on April 18 and 19. Those who would like to carry the torch can fill out a form or call 724-847-6521.
“God has blessed Geneva for 160 years as we have embraced and lived out the mission to provide Christ-centered education, first in Northwood and now in Beaver Falls,” says Geneva President Kenneth A. Smith. “We want to acknowledge and celebrate those blessings – and ‘Passing the Flame′ with 160 people who care about the institution is a special way to do that. We will end the event by inviting students on the campus to light their own candle with the flame that started in Northwood. This should be a celebration for everyone to remember.”
Geneva will continue to host a number of commemorations, both big and small, on the campus throughout the year to celebrate its 160th anniversary.
Geneva College is a comprehensive Christian college of the arts, sciences and professional studies. Founded in the tradition of the Reformed Christian faith, Geneva prepares students to serve Christ in all areas of society: work, family, and the church. Geneva is a founding member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU).
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