- July 10, 2026
Bethune-Cookman University recently welcomed students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the Daytona Beach community to campus on Thursday, July 9, for the annual birthday celebration honoring the life and legacy of founder Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.
The tradition of laying wreaths at Dr. Bethune’s gravesite and statue commemorates her enduring contributions to education, civil rights and community leadership while reaffirming the university’s commitment to advancing the vision she established more than a century ago.
“Each year, we gather to celebrate Dr. Bethune’s life while recommitting ourselves to the principles she championed through faith, education and service,” said Dr. Albert D. Mosley, B-CU’s president. “As we honor her 151st birthday, we celebrate not only her extraordinary legacy, but also the responsibility to carry her vision forward by preparing the next generation of leaders to make a meaningful difference in the world.”
The July 9 celebration included a free kids’ fun zone at Daisy Stocking Park in Daytona Beach, as well as an archive exhibit at B-CU’s Carl S. Swisher Memorial Library.
