A Celebration for the Books

In 1950, Southeastern marked its 25th anniversary with a week of attention-grabbing festivities. Even Vice President of the United States Alben Barkley, along with Governor Earl K. Long and other prestigious guests, felt the event too important to miss. In addition to events such as a parade through downtown Hammond and an official Celebration and Dedication Ceremony, a formal Silver Jubilee Dance was held to christen the brand new War Memorial Student Union—with legendary band leader Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra taking the stage.