125 years ago: In 1884 Brigham Young Academy creates the Preparatory Department, admitting students as young as fourth graders—then called fourth readers—to bolster enrollment.
100 years ago: President Joseph F. Smith presides over the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the Maeser Memorial Building on Oct. 16, 1909.
75 years ago: In 1934, in the midst of the Great Depression, the U.S. government offers financial aid to college students for the first time. Grants given to BYU provide employment for several hundred students.
50 years ago: On Oct. 12, 1959, a small crowd gathers for the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Abraham O. Smoot Administration and General Services Building.
25 years ago: The BYU football team claims the 1984 National College Football Championship after defeating Michigan 24–17 in the Holiday Bowl.
10 years ago: In 1999 the BYU Center for Service and Learning is established to help students find service opportunities that suit their interests and schedules.
5 years ago: Bronco Mendenhall is promoted from the football team’s defensive coordinator to head coach.