Susquehanna University - 1980 to 1989

Desk top graffiti as a sign of genius? Perhaps, but most likely just an indication of the interests of the student who occupied the seat before you. This Crusader writer analyzes the three types of graffiti: the rock group, the love group and the Greek group, and laments that all of their creativity is simply washed away. So sad!

In May of 1982, Selinsgrove created and consumed the World's Largest Banana Split. The tasty treat ran the length of the town, and earned an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records. The title was later lost to a fraternity at Bowling Green State University. Anxious to regain the title, the town of Selinsgrove planned to create and consume a 4 1/2 mile long sundae on April 30, 1988. This newspaper article invites community members to actively participate and GO BANANAS! The title was returned to Selinsgrove and a recreation of the banana split was created and consumed in 2003 to celebrate Susquehanna University's Sesquicentennial.

Continuing the tradition of popular concerts at Susquehanna, the Sunbury, PA-based rock band, Harpo, performed in Weber Chapel Auditorium in 1980. The show was sponsored by the Susquehanna University Program Board and radio station, WQSU.

All in the name of brotherhood, a pledge for the Greek fraternity, Theta Chi, participates in the ritual of paddling at a social event in 1981.

The International Student Exchange program offered students the opportunity to study in and experience the culture of another country. Claudia Merkl '83 was Susquehanna University's first student to go abroad under the terms of the new international student exchange. Merkl studied in West Germany.

Anyone interested in investing was encouraged to join the Investments Club. Professors were also permitted to participate. Workshops, discussions, and lectures helped the club make a real investment through E.F. Hutton. Club dues were used in investments.

The John App Honor Society was established at the University in 1980 to recognize and encourage scholastic achievement. Membership required a student to be a full time junior or senior with a 3.75 or higher grade point average. John App was an influential Selinsgrove citizen who in 1858 donated land which helped in the founding of the Missionary Institute, which would later become Susquehanna University.

To "recognize and encourage superior scholastic achievement," the John App Society was formed in 1983. Full time juniors and seniors with a GPA of 3.75 could be members. John App was a Selinsgrove citizen who donated land, making the founding of the Missionary Institute possible.

Susquehanna University Color Guards, the non-musical members of the Marching Band, enhanced the visual impact of the band by carrying the school colors of orange and maroon. We see in this image the 1981 Color Guard membership.

This image shows the 1984 May Queen Court and escorts dressed in their best. May Day celebrations at Susquehanna University date back to 1921.

In an effort to raise funds for the Children's Miracle Network Telethon at Geisinger Miracle Center, the Panhellenic Council presented the 2nd Annual "Mr. SU Contest." Contestants were asked to appear in casual wear, jacket and tie and bathing suit. Contestants were also encouraged to showcase any talent they might have. This Crusader article encourages the students to help make a miracle happen!

Pump up the volume! Before the advent of the Ipod, the "boom box" was a must-have item for all college students. This 1981 image shows a parent helping deliver the necessities as students move into the dorms and begin a new academic year.