The Founding of Arizona State University
Arizona State University was originally established as the Territorial Normal School at Tempe in 1885. Its purpose was to train teachers to serve the growing population of Arizona, which was still a U.S. territory at the time. The institution started with just 33 students.
Becoming a University
In 1958, Arizona voters approved a measure to change the school’s name from Arizona State College to Arizona State University. This marked a pivotal point in the institution’s development, symbolizing its growing status and expansion beyond teacher education into a full-fledged university.
Welcoming Sparky
ASU adopted the "Sun Devil" mascot in 1946, after a student vote led to a decision to change the original mascot from the Bulldogs. Sparky the Sun Devil, designed by Disney animator Bert Anthony, quickly became an iconic symbol of school spirit.
The Expansion into Research
During the 1960s and 1970s, ASU made significant strides in becoming a major research institution. New colleges and departments were created, and the university began to invest heavily in research, particularly in the sciences and engineering, which paved the way for its future as a leader in innovation.
ASU’s Charter and Commitment to Inclusion
In 2014, ASU introduced a new charter emphasizing inclusivity, public service, and research that benefits the community. The charter highlighted ASU's commitment to accepting students from all backgrounds while striving for excellence in research and academic achievement.