Old Order of Owls 125th Anniversary Celebration: Celebrating 125 Years of Brotherhood
Join us for a historic milestone celebration honoring 125 years of the Old Order of Owls. October 9-10, 2026, during Homecoming Weekend, we’ll gather to celebrate our heritage, strengthen our bonds, and launch bold new initiatives for the future.
A Weekend to Remember
Our 125th Anniversary Celebration brings together generations of Owls for two unforgettable days of connection, celebration, and community impact on October 9-10, 2026. This milestone event marks more than a century of brotherhood and sets the stage for our next chapter.
Friday: Airbnb Gathering
6:00 PM onwards
Kick off the celebration with a casual gathering at a private Airbnb in Fargo. Connect with fellow Owls in a relaxed setting.
Saturday Morning: Homecoming Tailgate
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join us at the MSU Nemzek Parking Lot for a pre-game tailgate filled with food, fun, and fraternity spirit.
Saturday Evening: Main Celebration
7:00 PM onwards
Our main event at the MSU Alumni Center will feature speakers, awards, and reflections on 125 years.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Tim Downs is the 12th president of Minnesota State University Moorhead, serving since July 1, 2023, with over 35 years of higher education leadership. He previously led Northern State University and held senior roles at Cal Poly Humboldt. Known for his student-focused approach and signature red tennis shoes, he is committed to academic excellence and strong campus connections.
In 2025, he was inducted into the Old Order of Owls as Mystic #1225, becoming the fifth MSUM president to join. His leadership reflects a deep dedication to tradition, community, and student success, making him a fitting co-keynote speaker for the fraternity’s 125th anniversary.
Bob Bowlsby is a highly respected leader in collegiate athletics, with over 40 years of experience, including serving as Big 12 Commissioner (2012–2022). He also held Athletic Director roles at Stanford, Iowa, and Northern Iowa, helping shape modern college sports and the College Football Playoff.
A Minnesota State University Moorhead graduate and former champion wrestler, he is a Hall of Fame inductee and member of the Old Order of Owls. The Big 12 honored him with the Bob Bowlsby Award, recognizing top student-athletes. His legacy of leadership and service makes him a fitting keynote speaker for the 125th Anniversary Celebration.
Ross Fortier is a key figure in Minnesota State University Moorhead athletics, serving as head football coach and athletic director. Over 23 seasons, he led the team to a 152-80-4 record, nine conference titles, and seven postseason appearances.
He later spent 20 years as athletic director, expanding programs and launching major events. Inducted into the Old Order of Owls in 2025, his legacy makes him a fitting speaker for the 125th Anniversary Celebration.
Friday Night: Airbnb Gathering
Event Highlights
Kick off the weekend with casual networking in a fun, engaging atmosphere at a private Airbnb venue in Fargo. Connect with alumni and enjoy a cozy, intimate setting, perfect for reconnecting with fellow Owls.
- Appetizers and 2 Beverages available
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM (Airbnb Gathering) & 6:00 – until everyone leaves
*There are 4 open rooms at the Airbnb and some available crash couches if needed
Event Details
Homecoming Tailgate: Fueling Owl Spirit!
Kick off the main celebration weekend in true Owl style at our official 125th Anniversary Tailgate Party! Join us before the MSU Homecoming football game for a vibrant gathering of generations, building excitement and camaraderie.
1
Date & Time
Saturday, October 10th.2026
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
2
Location
MSU Nemzek Parkting Log
(Adjacent to the stadium)
3
Activities
Food trucks, live music, cornhole & lawn games, family fun zone, and exclusive Owl merchandise!
4
Connect
Mingle with alumni, current students, and families. Fuel your spirit before cheering on the Owls at the Homecoming game!
Saturday, October 10, 2026: Main Anniversary Celebration
The centerpiece of our 125th celebration takes place at the Barry Auditorium (pending confirmation), bringing together 125 Owls for an evening of reflection, recognition, and forward-looking vision. This formal program honors our past while featuring a keynote speaker and the Honorary Owl presentation, and launching initiatives that will shape our future.
1
6:00 PM: Welcome Reception
Registration, networking, and welcome toast to kick off the evening.
2
6:30 PM: Formal Program Begins
Jon Adams and Donn Groth welcome remarks.
3
6:40 PM: Tribute and Memorial Presentation
Bo Boerner and Mike Ryan honor our legacy with a heartfelt remembrance of brothers who have passed.
4
6:50 PM: Future and Financials
Michael Sullivan and Scott Hambrook present Owl Legacy Foundation outlook.
5
7:00 PM: Owl Legacy Foundation: The Next Generation
Jordan Ustanko Owl Legacy Foundation, The Next Generation.
6
7:10 PM: Stories from the Sidelines
Coach Ross Fortier shares stories and reflections from his time coaching at MSU.
7
7:25 PM: State of MSU
Tim Downs, MSUM President, shares university updates.
8
7:40 PM: Keynote Address
Bob Bowlsby delivers the evening’s keynote presentation.
9
8:00 PM: Fellowship and Good Cheer
Closing remarks followed by a social hour to reconnect.
