Trevecca Nazarene University is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong series of events, service projects and special programs throughout the 2026-27 academic year.
Founded in 1901 by the Rev. J.O. McClurkan as a training school for Christian workers, Trevecca has called several Nashville locations home, including the Ryman Auditorium before moving to its current Murfreesboro Pike campus in 1935.
The university became Trevecca Nazarene University in 1995. Its anniversary theme is “Rooted, Refined and Ready,” reflecting the school’s longstanding mission of preparing students for lives of leadership and service.
The celebration will include a special homecoming weekend in November, a President’s Dinner and a commemorative book featuring alumni stories, archival photos and artifacts from across the university’s history. The book is expected to be released in summer 2027.
Trevecca is also marking the anniversary through community service. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members can participate in initiatives including 125 Meals and 125 Acts of Service.
The university’s incoming freshman class is also working toward 125 hours of community service. Students will partner with Nashville organizations including House2Home, Second Harvest Food Bank, The Branch, Friends of Shelby, People Loving Nashville, Rocketown and Adventure Science Center.
Trevecca currently serves students from 46 states and 41 countries through nearly 130 degree programs ranging from associate to doctoral degrees.
The university has also recently expanded its campus with University Commons, a seven-story residence hall, and a new health sciences building.
Later this year, the Metro Nashville Council is expected to issue a proclamation recognizing Trevecca’s anniversary. On Nov. 5, the Korean Veterans Memorial Bridge will be lit in purple and white to mark the milestone.
“Trevecca has spent 125 years preparing students for lives of leadership and service, and that mission is as alive today as it was in 1901,” President Dr. Dan Boone said. “This milestone is a chance to celebrate everything our students, faculty and alumni have built, and to look ahead with the same faith and purpose that carried us here.”
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