Celebrating Idaho State’s 125th Anniversary

Idaho State University will achieve an impressive milestone in 2026 - 125 years as an institution of higher learning. In the coming months, information will be shared about how all members of our University communities can join in celebrating this significant historical year. 

The 125th Anniversary planning committee is developing plans to commemorate ISU and is seeking information related to ISU’s long and successful history.

1. Time capsules: We are aware of four time capsules buried at the Pocatello and Idaho Falls campuses (PSUB, College of Pharmacy, Davis Field and Idaho Falls). Additional time capsules may exist on ISU’s campuses and we are asking for help to identify capsules that may have been buried for 50 years or more. 
2. Milestone anniversaries:  Please let us know about programs, departments, clubs or other entities that will celebrate a milestone in 2026, such as 5-, 10- or 15-year anniversaries.

Founded in 1901, at the turn of the nineteenth century, the world was changing and the communities in Southeast Idaho rallied behind a cause that would allow them to evolve with the times – education.

The Academy of Idaho was created on March 11, 1901, when Governor Frank W. Hunt signed Senate Bill 53 into law. The bill was drafted by Theodore F. Turner, considered the “father” of Idaho State University, who also served as an Idaho senator and as mayor of Pocatello. 

Looking ever forward, Turner and all those involved 125 years ago began a tradition of community, academic excellence, and inclusion that has persevered through political opposition, the Great Depression, two world wars, crippling drought, five name changes, the Spanish flu and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As Bengals, we set out all those years ago to flourish, to innovate, and to be the architect of a better day, tomorrow. Now, in 2026 we celebrate and honor those who came before us in this effort, and plant the seeds necessary to continue it into the next century and beyond. 

Please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at marcom@isu.edu or (208) 282-3620 with information about either of these requests.