Hollins Commemorates Founder's Day

Description

Hollins University observes one of its most cherished traditions, Founder’s Day, on Thursday, February 20.

The event celebrates the birth of Charles Lewis Cocke, who served as president of Hollins from 1846 until his death in 1901. Even though Cocke came to Hollins after its establishment in 1842, he is considered the school’s founder because the institution would not have survived without his leadership during financial crises, disease epidemics, the Civil War, and other challenges. (Cocke was born on February 21, 1820.)

The Founder’s Day program will begin that afternoon with members of the senior class and a member of the campus community chosen by that class processing to the Cocke family cemetery, located at the southeast end of campus, and placing a wreath on Mr. Cocke’s grave. The annual Founder’s Day Convocation follows at 4:30 p.m. in duPont Chapel, an event open to the general public as well as students, faculty, and staff.