200 Years
of Innovation

Welcome to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Bicentennial Year, 2024!

We are marking this historic milestone with a year-long program of events and activities that honor our past, celebrate our present, and chart our course forward.

Founded in 1824 for applying science to the common purposes of life, RPI is the first technological research university in the United States. Today, it is recognized as a premier university, noted for its robust and holistic learning community that connects creativity with science and technology.

Join us as we embrace this important moment!


The stories
of RPI

We invite our entire RPI community to share their Rensselaer stories. To our students, alumni, faculty, staff, partners and supporters, thank you for being part of our journey and making history every day. Whether it's a transformative event, a cherished memory, or a moment of inspiration, please share your story, let's together capture the essence of what makes RPI special.


200 on top of a blueprint of a ferris wheel

Two centuries of education

This commemorates RPI's 20 decades of innovation, excellence, and impact. From groundbreaking discoveries to life-changing educational experiences, we celebrate the countless and remarkable ways in which those who have studied at RPI have impacted the everyday lives of people everywhere. Explore the world of Rensselaer Firsts to learn just how world-changing our students and graduates are.

Read more firsts

Building Bridges to the Future

Bicentennial Commencement 2024

RPI Bicentennial Commencement guests and students Learn More

Upcoming Signature Events

Take part in a year of Bicentennial celebrations.

September 13, 2024
Bicentennial Campus Carnival
In celebration of our Bicentennial, we invite the campus community to join us for a carnival with a Ferris wheel, food trucks, lawn games, and more.
September 14, 2024
Bicentennial Community Carnival
In celebration of our Bicentennial, we invite the Troy community to join us for a carnival with a Ferris wheel, food trucks, lawn games, and more.
September 27 - November 5, 2024
Bicentennial Community Art Show Opening
Art installation and public gallery show featuring the work of 14 RPI School of Architecture students will be presented in the windows of the Chasan building in downtown Troy.
September 27, 2024
Bicentennial Drone Show
Join us for an unforgettable experience as we take RPI’s legacy to the sky. Our Bicentennial Drone Show will celebrate our past, reflect on the present, and look to the future.
September 27 - 29, 2024
Reunion & Homecoming
Reunion & Homecoming 2024 will welcome alumni of all years and will include milestone celebrations for class years ending in 4 or 9, fraternities and sororities, athletics, and clubs. The weekend will also feature a special celebration of RPI’s Bicentennial.
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