Alumni and friends celebrate CC’s 175th anniversary

Nico Neto ’19, a member of the Columbia College Alumni Association Advisory Council, speaks during Columbia College’s 175th birthday party on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at a Chicken N Pickle location in Kansas City. *Photo by Columbia College Photographer & Graphic Designer Abigail Wade*

More than 300 alumni and friends gathered to celebrate Columbia College’s 175th birthday at parties across the state of Missouri in January.

The first event occurred Thursday, Jan. 22, at The Kitchen Grill & Games in Columbia on the same day as the 2026 Charter Day Celebration on main campus. That was followed by events at Chicken N Pickle locations in Kansas City (Jan. 27) and St. Louis (Jan. 29).

“These gatherings are great opportunities to come together as the Columbia College community and serve as a reminder of the College’s rich history and bright future,” said President Dr. David Russell. “As we celebrate this landmark, please know that our alumni and friends play a key role in continuing to fulfill our mission of improving lives.”

Attendees pose for a group photo at Columbia College’s 175th birthday party on Thursday, Jan. 22, at The Kitchen Grill & Games in Columbia. *Photo by Columbia College Photographer & Graphic Designer Abigail Wade*

The institution’s anniversary year coincides with the milestone of eclipsing 100,000 alumni around the world.

“It’s fantastic to have such a large presence of alumni and friends, all with a fondness and affinity for Columbia College,” said Greg Hulen, Vice President for Advancement. “We are committed to building and maintaining strong relationships with you. Thank you for being All in for CC!”

Jeannie Rulo ’00 ’18, Nico Neto ’19 and Trustee Bill Seibert ’09 represented the Columbia College Alumni Association (CCAA) by each providing remarks at one of the birthday parties.

Attendees pose for a group photo at Columbia College’s 175th birthday party on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at Chicken N Pickle in Kansas City. *Photo by Columbia College Photographer & Graphic Designer Abigail Wade*

Jared Reichel ’16, Chair of the CCAA Advisory Council, spoke in a video shared at Charter Day.

“The story of CC is still being written,” Reichel said. “The challenges ahead will call for boldness as we continue to adapt, and that’s when Columbia College feels most at home. Because our purpose remains clear: to open doors, to develop leaders, to grow our network of alumni, and to invest — boldly — in a brighter tomorrow.

“For the next generation of scholars. For the next 175 years. We Are CC!”

Limited-edition challenge coins are available in honor of 175 years. With a donation of $17.50 or more to the Columbia College Fund in support of CC students, receive a commemorative coin to keep or share with a family member or friend. Once you receive your coin, you can register it as part of an online map demonstrating the reach of the college community.