Although Southern Methodist University obtained its charter in 1911, the doors of the University were not opened until September 1915. Nineteen hundred and sixty-five marks the fiftieth year of SMU’s program of instruction. This anniversary was commemorated in special publications and events, beginning with June Commencement in1965 and ending with June Commencement of 1966.

Claude Albritton, Dean of the Graduate School of Humanities and Sciences was the Anniversary General Chair and head of the Anniversary Executive Committee. The remaining members of the Anniversary Executive Committee were W.L. Ayres, Vice President of SMU, and Marshall Terry, SMU’s head of public relations. President Willis M. Tate presided during its 50th Anniversary celebration and ceremonies.

There were a number of notable 50th Anniversary Celebration events including a lecture given by Olga Ragusa of Columbia University, commemorating the 700th Anniversary of Dante. The first Women’s Symposium, whose theme was "The Education of Women for Social and Political Leadership" was launched during SMU’s 50th Anniversary season. More generally, unique records of departmental events have been well preserved illustrating the different ways in which SMU celebrated its milestone.

SMU’s 75th Anniversary was given the theme "A Legacy of Learning," referencing the large strides the university had made from 706 students in 1915 to 9,000 students in 1986. The theme also emphasized the significant impact SMU students and alumni have had on the local and state level, making SMU one of the preeminent institutions for undergraduate education in the Southwest.