03/26/12 kb

HAYS, Kan. -- A public, outdoor celebration of the achievements and successes of Fort Hays State University, its faculty, students and staff over the 25 years of Dr. Edward H. Hammond's presidency will be from1 to 3 p.m. Friday, April 20, on the university's Quad.

One highlight will be the Ed Hammond look-alike contest for students. Contestants will have 15 seconds to speak to the judges and audience. They will be judged on clothing, hair, accessories and general appearance. Wigs are permitted. First prize will be a tie and matching pocket square and lunch with President Hammond.

Judges will be announced the day of the celebration. To enter the Ed Hammond look-alike contest, go to http://www.fhsu.edu/president/lookalike/.

Victor E. Tiger, FHSU cheerleaders, the Tiger Debs, university musicians, balloons, inflatables, photo displays, posters, cake, ice cream and a keg of root beer will also be on hand to mark the 25th anniversary of Hammond's presidency, the longest in FHSU history. He began his tenure in April 1987.

A special Web page went up March 26: www.fhsu.edu/25th.

The 25 years have seen a doubling of enrollment from less than 6,000 to more than 13,000 this spring; more than $124 million in major construction; millions more in improvements in technology, equipment and faculty that have expanded FHSU's reach from western Kansas to the rest of the world; educational partnerships in China and Taiwan; and numerous achievements by students and faculty.

The party will begin after a brief opening ceremony.