Savannah State University Marks 136 Years with Founders Day Celebration
Savannah State University is celebrating its 136th anniversary at its annual Founders Day event in Savannah, Georgia, honoring its legacy as the state's first HBCU. The celebration includes a keynote address from Dr. Pearl Dowe, a graduate and senior vice…

Savannah, GA, November 12, 2026 — Savannah State University (SSU) is commemorating its 136th anniversary with its annual Founders Day event, held in Savannah, Georgia. This occasion serves to honor the institution’s significant legacy as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the state of Georgia.
The university’s Founders Day celebration is a key event in its academic calendar, drawing together students, faculty, alumni, and community members. This year’s observance highlights the enduring contributions SSU has made to higher education and its role in fostering generations of leaders and professionals.
A central feature of the celebration is the keynote address, scheduled to be delivered by Dr. Pearl Dowe. Dr. Dowe is an alumna of Savannah State University and currently holds the position of senior vice provost at Emory University. Her presence underscores the university’s commitment to recognizing the achievements of its graduates and their impact in various fields.
Established in 1890, Savannah State University has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. The Founders Day event not only reflects on the university’s history but also looks toward its future, reinforcing its mission to provide accessible and quality education.
The event provides a platform to acknowledge the university’s historical significance and its ongoing role in shaping the educational landscape of Georgia and beyond. Savannah State University continues to build upon its foundational principles, serving its diverse student body and contributing to the advancement of knowledge and opportunity.
Story summarized from the original created by Alexis Derickson on www.wtoc.com, see more information here.
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