What started 100 years ago as a simple addition to the university budget has grown into one of the largest schools on campus. According to Frank T. Stockton’s book, “History of the School of Business,” KU established the school in July 1924 to minimal fanfare. The first year, 51 students enrolled.

A century later finds the School of Business boasting record fall enrollment of 4,404 students, including 1,053 freshmen, also a record.

“We are excited to be celebrating a century of excellence in business education at KU,” said KU School of Business Interim Dean Susan Scholz. “The school’s dynamic history reflects the hard work and efforts of countless individuals over the past 100 years. As we celebrate our school’s beginnings, we honor those contributions and look forward to what the future holds for the KU School of Business.”

The School of Business kicked off its yearlong centennial celebration with an Aug. 15 event at Capitol Federal Hall with former and current faculty and staff, Dean’s Advisory Board and Deans Club members, KU leaders, including deans and directors, and state and local officials. Lt. Gov. and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, a KU graduate, shared remarks about business education and its positive influence on the state.

The school has events planned throughout the year to connect students, alumni, donors and professionals.

For more information about the yearlong celebration, please visit: www.business.ku.edu/about/history/centennial.