Georgia Tech's first graduate, H.L. Smith, pushed for the creation of an alumni association.

In 1899, Smith, ME 1890, observed, "For the first few years, we cannot expect our association to become the wonder of this generation; neither can we, nor will we, remain insignificant, for this sentiment does not find a lodgment in the heart of him who is molding for himself a future of usefulness. We must be known, we must be felt, and to be such requires the individual effort and concerted effort of each and every alumnus."

After a number of starts, sputters and smokers, a charter was granted in 1908. The Alumni Association is commemorating its 100 years with a yearlong centennial celebration.

"This is a momentous occasion, a momentous anniversary that covers a phenomenal period of history," said Joseph P. Irwin, president of the Alumni Association.

A centennial logo was designed especially for use throughout the anniversary year.

The historic event was ushered in with the publication of a new book, "Ramblin' Wrecks From Georgia Tech," which is a history of the Alumni Association written by John Dunn, Gary Goettling, Kimberly Link-Wills and Leslie Overman.

A documentary DVD, "TechTone News," a companion to the book, is presented in the style of old Movietone News reels. It was produced by the Alumni Association's Living History program under the direction of Marilyn Somers. Scott Dinerman, STC 03, Living History's videographer, edited the 24-minute documentary and created the graphics and special effects.

The centennial observance will include colorful 100th anniversary banners, billboards on Interstate 75-85, a street naming and dedications. It will be an evident theme in all annual Alumni Association events and activities such as Pi Mile, the Presidents' Dinner, Alumni Career Fair and Homecoming, said Renee Queen, vice president of Marketing Services for the Alumni Association.

A centennial wooden bowl designed by the Moulthrop family, whose works are prized by collectors, will be created from an elm tree in the Basil Garden that was felled by a windstorm. The family craft of wood turning and bowl making was started by Edward Moulthrop, who taught architecture and physics at Tech in the 1940s. His son, Philip Moulthrop, and grandson, Matt Moulthrop, MBA 04, have continued the work.

Other activities in the works, which will be promoted on an Alumni Association centennial Web site, include a centennial cruise, a trip to New York City with the Georgia Tech marching band, also celebrating its anniversary in 2008, and "some creative opportunities around campus for alumni and students," Queen said.

To purchase the book and documentary DVD, go to gtalumni.org.