2024 Senate Resolution 139

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

Whereas, EMU 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, EMU has been at the forefront in advancing equity in higher education; and

Whereas, In 1852, the Michigan State Teachers’ Association, later known as the Michigan Education Association, was organized by approximately 200 teachers at EMU; and

Whereas, Since 1915, EMU has offered classes on how to provide education designed for the needs of students with disabilities. EMU’s Department of Special Education is one of the oldest special education programs in the country; and

Whereas, From the Michigan State Normal School to the Michigan State Normal College, to Eastern Michigan College and finally Eastern Michigan University, they have continued to broaden their educational offerings; and

Whereas, Now, EMU is a research university comprising of seven colleges and schools including the following:

·

College of Arts and Sciences;

·

College of Business;

·

College of Education;

·

College of Health and Human Services;

·

GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology;

·

Honors College;

·

Graduate School; and

Whereas, Since local citizens first raised funds for its founding, EMU has been a vital part of the Ypsilanti community and continues to be a center of equity and educational excellence; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 175th anniversary of Eastern Michigan University; and be it further

Resolved, That we recognize Eastern Michigan University’s contributions to our state and hope that it will continue in its traditions of excellence for many years to come.