This year, the University of Washington, Bothell is celebrating its 20th year of operations. When the university began, there were only 126 students enrolled for classes. In 1991, it had its first class of three graduates receive their University of Washington degrees. Today, there are nearly 9,000 alumni and more than 2,800 current students, making the institution a staple in the Bothell community.

As a junior at UW-Bothell in the interdisciplinary arts and sciences program, I have been able to experience many of the exciting changes that have occurred. As a member of the second freshman class, I have come to see UW-Bothell as a place where I can grow academically and socially. UW-Bothell has provided me with the opportunity to learn new ideas and make lifelong and lasting friendships. The 20th-year anniversary reminds me of how, right now, at this moment, I am contributing to the next 20 years of success.

UW-Bothell offers students more than just classes close to home. A UW-Bothell education presents students with a University of Washington accredited degree, but also allows students to learn in an intimate class setting where professors know each student on a first-name basis. And if those aren’t enough reasons to go to UW-Bothell, it also has a strong hands-on learning component and outstanding career preparation program. With a wide variety of degree choices, there is a program for everyone.

Combining all of these fundamental necessities for a memorable college experience allows UW-Bothell to say that it is one of the fastest-growing campuses in the Northwest, and a leader in higher education. Currently, UW-Bothell is 116 percent enrolled and is looking to increase space and enrollment in the next few years.

The original campus was housed in a small business park, and in 1996 the Boone Ranch was purchased as the new permanent co-location for Cascadia Community College and UW-Bothell. When UW-Bothell moved into the permanent location in 2000, spirits were high as goals were set to provide a top-class education to Eastside students.

The 20th-year celebration is one that Elizabeth Fischtziur, director of public relations and communications at UW-Bothell says, “Is a wonderful opportunity for the campus community to reflect on our shared accomplishments, with an eye to the future for continued success.”

Students also reflect on UW-Bothell’s shared accomplishments. Master of arts in cultural studies student, Peter Freeman, says, “I have been a student on the UW-Bothell campus since 2006, when I was working towards my bachelor’s degree, and I feel like it has become a second home. Being part of the 20th-year anniversary reminds me of how many important changes have occurred, and how I have experienced them first hand.”

In the last 20 years of operations, UW-Bothell has surpassed many milestones, including the addition of an exchange program in Japan, courses at off-site locations (such as Bellevue and Mount Vernon) and the funding for a third building. For students, UW-Bothell has also opened a fitness center and invited mobile food vendors to increase food options on campus. With all of these changes and additions, UW-Bothell is sure to be prepared for the next 20 years.

Recently, UW-Bothell has tried to expand its reach to the greater Bothell community by hosting events for the neighbors, partnering with local businesses to provide students with discounts and introducing campus housing (centrally located in the heart of downtown by the Bothell Fire House). With the expansion of the campus housing, Bothell neighbors can look forward to a continued partnership between the residents and the students.

UW-Bothell continues to celebrate its 20th year of operations in a year-round commemoration which will include a 20th-year reunion. For more information on the history of UW Bothell, visit its 20th-year celebration Web site: www.uwb.edu/20years.