Wright State–Lake Campus’ America 250 event brings students and community together

More than 200 attendees gathered at Wright State–Lake Campus for an afternoon of connection and reflection. (Photos by Wright State–Lake Campus)

As an early commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, more than 200 students, educators and community members gathered at Wright State University–Lake Campus to explore the stories, people and defining moments that have shaped American history.

The gathering, held at Lake Campus’ outdoor amphitheater on April 9, focused on celebrating America’s founding and Ohio’s role in the nation’s history.

“As we began looking ahead to the nation’s 250th anniversary, we saw an opportunity for Lake Campus to help our community engage with this historic milestone in a meaningful way,” said Dane Daniel, Ph.D., professor of history and chair of the Outreach Committee at Lake Campus. “We wanted to create an event that brought history to life, encouraged learning and reflection, and welcomed students, educators and community members to celebrate and explore our shared history together.”

The event opened with a color guard presentation and a performance of the national anthem by the Lake Campus Muse Club.

Students from Celina High School, Coldwater High School, Sidney Christian Academy and Lake Campus joined other attendees for Revolutionary War-era fife and drum music, and presentations by historical interpreters portraying Gens. George Washington and Anthony Wayne.

Additional demonstrations highlighted the uniforms, equipment and weapons used during the era. Presenters and participants included members of the Ohio Society and Sons of the American Revolution and Wright State musicians, elected officials, historians and educators.

The afternoon concluded with a three-volley musket salute.

As communities across the country held America 250 commemorations, Lake Campus was proud to serve as a gathering place for learning, reflection and connection.

The event included student performances, historical demonstrations and a three-volley musket salute.