80 years! Tec relives its history at anniversary ceremony

The institution’s anniversary ceremony was held in the Luis Elizondo Auditorium and included a review of Tec de Monterrey’s 80-year history and its impact on society.

David Garza, Rector and Executive President of the Tec, gave a speech in which he highlighted how the institution is known for its innovation, social commitment, and striving to take action on a global level.

“The Tec is about thinking big. We went from one building with 350 students to two educational institutions and an academic health center.

“But what defines the Tec the most, what has sustained us and continues to sustain us, is the passion and pride of our community, which is convinced that there is always something new on the horizon at the Tec. The Tec means hope; the Tec is the future,” he said in his speech.

He added that the Tec has been recognized by international organizations because of the impact of Tec graduates across Mexico and around the world.

“Our vision of leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship guides us to shape better people, better communities, and a better world.

“We want to strengthen our research, further promote the Tec on an international level, increase the development and recruitment of extraordinary talent, and expand our reach through lifelong learning models,” he added.

Ricardo Saldívar, Chairman of Tec de Monterrey’s Board of Directors, spoke about Eugenio Garza Sada’s idea that “education can achieve anything.”

“Our story is based on a simple and very powerful vision… We’re proud to honor that legacy, which has allowed those of us who are part of the Tec community to change the face of Mexico and the world.

“The long road that has led us from our beginnings to today has been paved by the effort and willpower of hundreds of thousands of committed people who have shaped our institution,” he said.

Bringing 80-year-old dream to life in short film

Students from the School of Architecture, Art, and Design created an animated video telling the story of Tec de Monterrey from its founding to the present.

This animation began with the vision of Eugenio Garza Sada, who planted a tree that grew little by little to become Tec buildings. The audience members who were celebrating the founding of the institution at the Luis Elizondo Auditorium showed their appreciation through lots of applause and cheers.

During the ceremony, students gave a theatrical performance in which they explained the most important moments in Tec de Monterrey’s history decade by decade.

Rectors at universities across Mexico and at institutions around the world sent their congratulations to Tec de Monterrey on its 80th anniversary.

The event concluded with the presentation of the 80th anniversary song ‘I am Tec,’ which was performed by Tec students.

“What has sustained us and continues to sustain us is the passion and pride of our community. The Tec means hope; the Tec is the future.” - David Garza.

The history of the bells

During the ceremony, several bells were rung, a tradition that began in the seventies when a large bell announced the start and end of classes.

Eight large bells were rung to commemorate each decade of Tec de Monterrey’s history.

Tec de Monterrey at 80

Tecnológico de Monterrey reaches its landmark 80th anniversary in 2023 and has chosen to celebrate it through different activities and experiences which commemorate both its history and legacy.

The Tec was founded by Eugenio Garza Sada and a group of business owners on September 6, 1943; the university’s first classes were taught in a large house on Abasolo Street (in downtown Monterrey) to a group of 350 students.

“Celebrating an anniversary is an opportunity for each and every one of us who are part of the Tec community to connect with each other,” shared David Garza, Rector and Executive President of the Tec.

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