2024 House Resolution 306

Whereas, The Michigan House is proud to honor Eastern Michigan University’s 175 years as an exemplar of equity and excellence in education; and

Whereas, Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as the Michigan State Normal School, the first institution dedicated to educating American teachers west of the Allegheny Mountains; and

Whereas, Eastern Michigan University has long been a leader in educating professional teachers, being the first American normal school to offer a four-year curriculum; and

Whereas, As the first public college in Michigan to admit both men and women regardless of race, Eastern Michigan University has also been at the forefront in advancing equity in higher education; and

Whereas, The Michigan State Teachers’ Association (later to become the Michigan Education Association) was organized by approximately two hundred teachers in 1852 at Eastern Michigan University; and

Whereas, The Department of Special Education at Eastern Michigan University is one of the oldest special education programs in the country, providing classes since 1915 on how to provide education designed for the needs of students with disabilities; and

Whereas, Eastern Michigan University has continued to broaden its educational offerings and develop over time from the Michigan State Normal School to the Michigan State Normal College to Eastern Michigan College and finally Eastern Michigan University; and

Whereas, Eastern Michigan University is now a research university comprising seven colleges and schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Health and Human Services, the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, the Honors College, and the Graduate School; and

Whereas, Eastern Michigan University has been a vital part of the Ypsilanti community since local citizens first raised funds for its founding, and continues to be a center of community life and educational excellence; now, therefore be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 175th anniversary of Eastern Michigan University. We recognize Eastern Michigan University’s 175 years of contributions to our state and hope that it will continue in its tradition of excellence for many years to come.