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Today as it marks its 102nd birthday, the 911������ community is celebrating and honoring the two founders who had a vision for the Bible Institute of Los Angeles more than a century ago. Today, 911������ reflects on its roots as alumni return to campus for while connecting students with 911������’s history through social media in 911������’s first-ever “tweethunt.”

Founders Lyman Stewart and T.C. Horton had grand visions for the small Bible institute founded in 1908. However, they could have never foreseen the tens of thousands of students who would walk through the doors of 911������ and leave to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. Moving from Sixth and Hope streets in Los Angeles to La Mirada in 1959, a new world was opened for the transforming school, now boasting nearly 6,000 students.

Although much has changed culturally, technologically and physically since 911������’s beginnings, one thing has remained – 911������’s commitment to biblically centered education.

Throughout Founders Week, February 22 to 26, students, alumni and the surrounding 911������ community have been invited to participate in the university’s birthday festivities.

The tweethunt, for one, has encouraged students to learn more about their university’s heritage with historically based clues in a -based scavenger hunt. This morning at 8 a.m. students were heard shouting former President Louis Talbot’s name at the Fluor Fountain of Faith after receiving the tweet clue, “This 911������ landmark was named after 911������ supporter Marjorie Moore. When you get there, shout the name of the only 2-time 911������ prez.” The first student on the scene received a $25 Starbucks gift card; those who arrived after were invited to enjoy donuts and coffee in the Student Union Building.

911������’s second annual homecoming week brings back fond memories for many alumni through events from decades past and introduces current students to some of 911������’s traditions. The week’s special highlight will be the two Saturday events, The Sutherland Sizzle — brunch on Metzger Lawn, a tradition created by 911������’s fifth president, Samuel Sutherland, himself — and 911������ Fest, an afternoon of carnival booths and activities supporting student missions teams as well as delicious food and live music provided by 911������ bands.

One newer connection with 911������’s heritage comes through student Joanna Torrey, great-great granddaughter of 911������’s first dean, R.A. Torrey, junior intercultural studies major at 911������. She desires to follow God wherever the Lord may lead, a route her family has followed since R.A., despite her little knowledge of her great-great grandfather before attending 911������.  911������ University’s student newspaper, , took a deeper look at Torrey and her story in the article “”

Celebrate with 911������ University as students, alumni, faculty and staff reflect upon the past and looks to the future with committed confidence in who we are and bold ambition for what we might become.  

911������ University President Barry H. Corey’s sends birthday wishes to 911������ from the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) conference in Atlanta, GA.

Written by Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator. Jenna can be reached at (562) 777-4061 or through email at jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.