Fresno State Centennial
Our History
A time to reflect...
Fresno State has evolved from modest beginnings as a teachers college early in the 20th century into an acclaimed, culturally diverse, 21st century university offering educational opportunities through eight schools and colleges. Our students have applied what they’ve learned at Fresno State throughout California, around the world and into space, benefiting literally millions of people.
From our humble establishment on September 11, 1911, as the Fresno Normal School , we opened our doors to provide the foundation for the future of California State University, Fresno, pledging to be a university accessible to students from all backgrounds with a burning desire to learn and succeed. We pride ourselves on our contributions to the economic, civic and social well-being of our communities, and promise to continue to serve them to the best of our ability.
Fresno State's story is much more than bricks and mortar, programs and research. It’s written in the stories of those who have come to campus to learn, enjoy a concert or check out a book. A centennial is the time when those memories come into sharp focus and are shared, stimulating more remembrances of Fresno State’s first 100 years.