NATCHITOCHES - A book signing for “Northwestern at 125:  Commemorative Edition, 1884-2009,” will be held Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at the Natchitoches Events Center. The signing is part of the University’s Homecoming activities and will held prior to the Homecoming Luncheon which begins at 12:30 p.m. A social hour will start at 11:30 a.m.

     The book’s editors will be present to sign copies of the publication, which will also be available for $50 each. Those who have previously bought copies of the book can bring them to be signed. More than 500 copies of the book have been sold. Proceeds from future book sales will fund student scholarships at Northwestern.

     The 200-page coffee table book features hundreds of color and black and white photographs from the university archives and a 30-page text highlighting memorable people, events and achievements in the school’s rich history.  There is also a chronology in the book of significant occasions and milestones at the university since it was established in 1884.

     Included in the book are sections on academics, student life, athletics and campus sites and scenes.  The publication’s photos and manuscript focus on many of the unique traditions, customs and rituals that have been such an important part of the university over the decades.

     Northwestern was established in 1884 as the State Normal School, and the first class was enrolled in 1885.  The school’s 125th anniversary is being observed with numerous events and activities during the 2009-10 school year.  The book was published by the NSU Press to initiate the year-long anniversary celebration. 

     Introductory remarks on the cover of the publication state that the book was published “as a tribute to the 75,000 alumni of Normal and Northwestern and teachers, coaches, administrators and friends” who are a part of the university’s heritage.

     The introduction also notes, “In this keepsake publication are reminders of hundreds of people, places and events that should stir memories of their alma mater for Northwestern alumni across the world and reinforce their bonds to this historic old school.”

     Editors of the book are Northwestern Vice President for External Affairs Jerry Pierce; Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School Dr. Steve Horton; Director of NSU Press and Informational Services Don Sepulvado and retired Professor Emeritus of Journalism Tom Whitehead.

     Pierce wrote the 30-page text for the publication in addition to the introduction on the book jacket, wording for division pages and much of the chronology section on major events in NSU history.  Sepulvado was the graphic designer and coordinated selection and placement of photographs, and Horton and Whitehead directed research, planning and editing of the publication.

     Books may also be ordered from the NSU Office of Alumni and Development by phone at (318) 357-4414 or go to www.northwesternalumni.com/book.