A new beginning for the state's third oldest university.
They lined up early, a few at first then hundreds, to be a part of history at the University of Central Arkansas. And over 100 years, UCA’s story has changed along with it's name.
"100 years from now this will be in the archives when they are celebrating their second 100 years," says university president Lu Hardin.
Back in 1907, the founders pooled their money and applied to bring the normal school to Conway to train teachers. The Central Arkansas normal school became the teacher's college and now a university with over 12,000 students. "42-hundred of our 12,300 students live on campus and a good part of them are here tonight," says Hardin.
Making history in Estes stadium, 2,300 students lined up and posed for a snap shot that future UCA bears will see. As well as those who've already received diplomas.
In another 100 years, university president Lu Hardin believes one thing will stay the same.
"Student graduation, student success will still be number one at the University of Central Arkansas," says Hardin.
