founders celebration logoFounders Celebration is an annual campus-wide event at Daemen College honoring the college’s origins, commemorating its rich history of scholarship—and continuing its momentum forward. This re-imagined celebration combines Homecoming, Alumni Weekend and Founders Day to create one spectacular week-long schedule of events.

The celebration has featured many Daemen traditions over the years, including:

  • Founders Day bell ringing—a ceremony and gathering of the college community at the Founders Bell outside Rosary Hall. Representatives of the college’s seven decades each ring the bell, initially crafted in 1858—the year the college’s namesake, Mother Magdalene Daemen, passed away—and refurbished with support from the college’s Class of 1967; 
  • State of the College Address delivered by President Gary Olson;
  • Distinguished Alumni Awards—Established in 1986, the annual reception recognizes graduates who have made a difference and highlights their achievements and societal contributions;
  • Daemen Day of Service—a day dedicated to volunteerism and service to the community by college faculty, staff, students and leadership;
  • Athletics events, including Wildcats soccer and volleyball matches at Karrer Field and Lumsden Gym, respectively;
  • Student-centric events, including a casino night, bonfire, intramural tournaments and Greek Life events.
  • A memorabilia exhibit highlighting Daemen’s history through a curated collection of artifacts;
  • A reception for faculty and staff marking milestone years of service;

Founders Celebration Visitor Process

Visitor Day Pass

  • No sooner than 24 hours before your visit, you and all guests in your party, must fill out the online visitor form at daemen.edu/visitor.
  • When you arrive on campus, please check-in at the Campus Safety desk (Lobby, Wick Center) to complete a short health screening and receive a visitor pass.
  • If you have an issue completing this form in advance, you can complete it upon arrival at the Campus Safety desk. 
  • For off-campus athletics events please follow the Athletics spectator policy.
  • Please note: Visitors must get a new pass each day they are on campus.

Visitor Mask Policy

  • As a Founders Celebration guest you must wear a mask at all times while indoors no matter your vaccine status (unless eating).
  • Vaccinated visitors are not required to wear a mask outside, but you are welcome to wear one if you wish.
  • Unvaccinated visitors must wear a mask at all times (indoor and outdoor).
  • A limited number of free "Daemen Family" masks will be available at the Wick Center Lobby Attendant desk.  Simply show your visitor pass to receive the special mask. 

For any questions regarding Founders Celebration, please contact founders@daemen.edu.