It’s Official — We are now Williamson College of the Trades!

During a Name Change Celebration on the lineup pad in front of the Main Building with an audience of about 150 alumni, trustees, faculty, staff, students, and friends The Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades officially became Williamson College of the Trades on July 1.

More pictures of this event can be found on the Williamson Facebook page.

Remarks were given by Wayne Watson 4W8, board chairman, representing the past; President Michael Rounds, representing the present; and Jared Pendleton 1W6, senior class president, representing the future.

Watson said changes were made over the years to keep the school up-to-date and relevant for the good of the students. “Of all the changes made over the years, this one is perhaps the most significant because with this change a Williamson education will become more valuable to its students than it ever was before. We are making this significant change in Williamson’s history, while staying true to our founder’s Deed of Trust.”

Rounds said, “It took us many years to get to this point and a great deal of hard work. During these years, there were times it looked as though the dream of including the word College in our name might never become a reality. But we are here today because the dream did become a reality.”

He added that although the name had changed, Williamson’s unique mission has not. He reminded the audience that the name change was made possible when Gov. Thomas Corbett signed the legislation permitting this in June 2014. He also had State Sen. Dominic Pileggi, who played a large role in making this happen, stand for a round of applause.

Pendleton said, “Speaking on behalf of the Class of 1W6, I am honored to be here today as president of the first class that will graduate with Williamson College of the Trades on our diplomas. This is truly a historic milestone in Williamson history and I am proud to be a part of it. Having Williamson College of the Trades on our diploma will be a door-opener.”

Next, Mario Civera Jr., chairman of Delaware County Council, accompanied by Councilman John McBlain and State Sen. Dominic Pileggi, presented President Rounds with a resolution honoring Williamson for its name change and its outstanding mission.

The former logo, mounted on an easel, was removed by Pendleton and Gregory Lindemuth, executive vice president and COO, revealing the new name and logo. Then, the new flag was hoisted up the flagpole.

After singing the alma mater, the crowd enjoyed a luncheon in the dining room.

More pictures of this event can be found on the Williamson Facebook page.