2023 Can’t-Miss Texas Tech Centennial Events

Written By Maggi Gallaspy

February 08, 2023

By: Maggi Gallaspy

One hundred years ago, a chilly winter morning in Austin would become a historic moment that established the future of West Texas as we know it today. 

On February 10, 1923, Senate Bill No. 103 was signed into order by Governor Pat Neff, creating a new college in West Texas. From the very beginning, the Lubbock community has rallied around the school in a spirit still very much alive today.

With 20,000 people in the crowd showing their support, the laying of the Administration Building Cornerstone took place in November of 1924. In 1925, with only six buildings and an enrollment of 914 students, Texas Technological College opened its doors. 

From 1923, to its official name change in 1965, and its current enrollment of over 40,000 students, Texas Tech has built an undeniable legacy. This year, they’re inviting you to celebrate a century of everything it means to be a Red Raider. 

If you want to join the celebration, check out these can’t-miss centennial events!

100 Years of Texas Tech University: Centennial Exhibit

Located at the Southeast Corner of 4th Street and Indiana Avenue sits the Museum of Texas Tech University. Now through December 23, 2023, visitors can enjoy the Centennial Exhibit. The exhibit focuses on the first 100 years of Texas Tech, including its unique architecture, significant achievements, and spotlights on alumni and influential people. 

Visitors can stop by Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. or Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m. Admission to the museum is free every day!

February 10 – Texas Tech Centennial Founders’ Day: Centennial Illumination

Round up your family and friends and join the community in kicking off 100 years of Texas Tech!

For three consecutive nights, the public is invited to celebrate the University’s 100th birthday. At dusk, the program will begin with an illumination on the Administration Building. This projection will tell a short story, featuring memorable imagery, video, and graphics.  

Information regarding road closures and parking can be found at here.  

February 10 – Texas Tech Centennial Founders’ Day: National Volunteer Day

On February 10, Texas Tech Alumni Association chapters across the country will participate in a day of giving back as part of the centennial celebration. To find a volunteer event near you, click here

Don’t let your good work stop with one day of giving back! If you choose to volunteer in any way this year, Texas Tech reminds you to log your hours to contribute toward the university’s goal of completing 1 million hours of volunteerism and service during its centennial celebration.

February 10 – Texas Tech Centennial Founders’ Day: Student Celebration

Calling all Texas Tech students! You’re invited to the student union building for festivities including music, food and fun from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

Show your school spirit and enjoy a break in classes. Gather your fellow Red Raiders and take part in the celebration!

February 10 – Texas Tech Centennial Founders’ Day: Faculty & Staff Celebration

Texas Tech faculty and staff members are invited to the Museum of Texas Tech for a reception and private access to the Centennial exhibit. 

Home to many incredible momentos from Texas Tech History, this is a one-of-a-kind experience for university faculty to enjoy! 

February 28 – Texas Tech Centennial Capitol Tech: A Texas Tech Centennial Celebration

On the eve of Texas Tech Day in Austin, Red Raiders will gather at the Coppertank Event Center for a night of live music, food and fun. 

Texas Tech alumna Lynda Kay will provide entertainment and there will be appearances by the Texas Tech spirit squads and the Masked Rider. Tickets are $100 and include food, cocktails and entertainment. 

Texas Tech Centennial Mobile Tour

Can’t make it to Lubbock for a centennial celebration? No worries! Texas Tech Brand Ambassadors are hitting the road from February to March to promote the celebration across the state.

To find out if the mobile billboard is stopping in a city near you, check out the tour route at https://100.ttu.edu/tour/. Its first stop will be Capitol Tech: A Texas Tech Centennial Celebration in Austin on February 28. The tour will wrap up in Midland on March 28 for a recruiting and outreach event. 

Long live the Matadors! For more information on the Texas Tech Centennial, including merchandise, the video playlist, free digital downloads, and centennial stories, or to log your volunteer hours, click here

Remember to share your centennial memories with us using #LiveLoveLubbock. 

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