Founded by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters in 1901, Dominican has been shaped by an enduring commitment to education grounded in truth, justice, compassion and respect for the dignity of every human being. 

Beginning in the late spring and continuing throughout the year, we will honor this milestone with a series of special events and gatherings that honor our history, uplift the stories and voices that define Dominican, and invite us to imagine the future we are building together. 

125th Anniversary Celebration Event Schedule

Latine Heritage Month Mass

Tuesday, September 15, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Quad/Rosary Chapel
Marcello Hernandez Castillo

Latine Heritage Month Keynote Marcelo Hernandez Castillo 

Thursday, September 17, 7:00 p.m.
Lund Auditorium

Black and Catholic with  Tia Noelle Pratt, PhD

Tuesday, October 6, 6:00 p.m.
Martin Recital Hall

HSI Quinceañera: 15 Years of DU being an HSI

Thursday, October 8, 6 p.m.
Parmer Atrium

Memorial Mass and Brunch

Sunday, November 1, 11 a.m.
Rosary Chapel, Social & Dining Halls
Individuals on stage in Lund Auditorium

Caritas Veritas Symposium

November 4, All Day
Various Campus Locations

Sound of Music & the Sisters with Sr. Priscilla Wood, OP

Thursday, November 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Lund Auditorium

Baccalaureate Mass

Sunday, December 13, 11 a.m.
Rosary Chapel
Graduates in caps and gowns

Winter Commencement

Sunday, December 13, 12:30 p.m.
Lund Auditorium
Aerial view of Dominican University's River Forest Campus, celebrating 125 years.

125 Years of Defining What’s Possible

Built on bold action and enduring purpose, our mission continues to shape what comes next.

Writing the Next Chapter—Together 

Across generations, our community has carried our mission forward, through times of growth and times of challenge, ensuring that Dominican remains a place where learning prepares students to serve the common good. You are now an integral part of this 125-year story. As this special year unfolds, we hope you are inspired by the legacy you now help to shape. We look forward to seeing you on campus soon. 

125 Years in Photos

As our heartfelt thank you for your gift of $250 or more, you will receive a beautifully bound, 100-page hardcover photo book. Within its pages, you’ll find the moments, people and places that have shaped Dominican University’s rich and enduring story—a reflection of the community you so generously sustain.

Make a Gift