WERE YOU THERE? 50 YEARS LATER: PEACE CORPS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

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On October 14, more than 1,500 students, special guests, and community members gathered to commemorate JFK’s “Peace Corps” speech on the steps of the Michigan Union.

We’ve selected a few of the best photos and video from that night here, along with photos of some of the other Peace Corps-related events happening on campus. Check back later as new event photos and video are posted.

A special thanks goes to the Hatcher Graduate Library, which hosted many Peace Corps exhibits and events.

And be sure to check out the slide show from The Michigan Daily and the National Peace Corps Association's photos on Facebook.

2AM Ceremony


Students watch A Passing of the Torch	A light rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the 1,500 + who attended	Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams addresses the crowd
Harris Wofford, Peace Corps Architect, talks with U–M student Steven Weinberg	The crowd was large and enthusiastic	Aaron Williams with Tom Hayden

10:30 AM Dedication

John Greisberger, International Center director, speaks at historical marker dedication	Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje and Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams	The dedication was covered by local media
Community members get a closer look	John Greisberger introduces Alan and Judy Guskin at marker dedication

Ghana Drums Performance

Fontomfrom drums from Ghana made the celebration even more special

The drums were commissioned by the U-M and will become a part of the U’s permanent collection

11AM Ceremony


The morning mid–ceremony was also well attended	Paul Courant was master of ceremonies	President Coleman addresses the gathering
Harris Wofford, former senator (PA) and Kennedy aide, helped create the Peace Corps