UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — In honor of the University's founding in 1855, the Penn State Lion Ambassadors will host a Penn State birthday celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, in the Hetzel Union Building (HUB) at University Park. The Lion Ambassadors will hand out birthday cupcakes and party hats, in addition to other free food and activities, to commemorate Founders' Day.

“Founders’ Day is an event aimed at celebrating the creation of our University, which took place on Feb. 22, 1855,” said Lion Ambassadors President Brandon Johnson. “This year, the event is in honor of Penn State's 161st birthday and will feature free food, music, performances and more.”

Entertainment will be provided throughout the afternoon from Penn State dance troupes and musical groups. Activities will center around Penn State’s history, including “Pin the Tail on Old Coaly,” and a photo booth with characters from Penn State’s past.

Penn State was originally established as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania. Each year, the Lion Ambassadors host a celebration in February to honor the University’s history and continued growth.

The Penn State Lion Ambassadors are the student alumni corps of the Penn State Alumni Association who aim to communicate the University’s history, personality and traditions to students, alumni and friends through tours and programming. Founded in 1982, the Lion Ambassadors serve as an important facet of student outreach for the Alumni Association. For more information, visit lionambassadors.com.