ACU to celebrate Gilmer Belcher's birthday For Immediate Release September 1, 1999 Abilene Christian University's oldest living retired faculty member, Dr. Gilmer Belcher, turns 101 Sept. 16, and ACU plans to celebrate. Every year on Sept. 16, Belcher returns to ACU, and his birthday is celebrated during chapel. He stands, and students and faculty sing "Happy Birthday" to him. Belcher was the first sponsor of men's social club Frater Sodalis. Every year they join in celebrating his birthday by circling him after chapel and singing their club songs. Starting in 1935 as an associate professor, Belcher remained a part of the ACU faculty for 32 years under many different titles. He taught a naval training program during World War II and several physical education classes. He also coached basketball, baseball and football, as well as an intercollegiate All Star team. -30- Archived News Releases - Current ACU News and Events If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Tom Craig, director of media and community relations, at craigt@nicanor.acu.edu or call 915-674-2692 (cell phone: 665-5469). Last update: Sept. 1, 1999 This page is maintained by Tom Craig, craigt@nicanor.acu.edu. http://www.acu.edu/people/news/990901-belcher.html