35th Anniversary Pride of Çanakkale University; Opening of ÇOMÜ University History Museum

Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University (ÇOMÜ), considered one of Turkey's leading scientific institutions, celebrated its 35th anniversary on July 3, 2026, with a grand ceremony and the opening of the "University History Museum." The event, held at the historic "Nedime Hanım Mansion" (Nedime Hanım Konağı) in Çanakkale city center, hosted a large number of alumni, faculty members, and local officials [1].

A Museum to Preserve the University's Collective Memory The ÇOMÜ University History Museum project was designed to pass on the institution's 35-year academic heritage and experiences to future generations. Prof. Dr. Oğuz Diker, Director of the Cultural Heritage Management and Museology Department, was responsible for introducing the project. The museum not only houses historical documents and objects related to the university's founding but also serves as a cultural center linking the university's past and future [2]. During the ceremony, a short documentary prepared by the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts depicted the university's evolution from 1992 to the present [1].

Rector's Remarks on 35 Years of Achievement Prof. Dr. Cüneyt Erenoğlu, Rector of ÇOMÜ, highlighted the institution's remarkable growth in his speech. He noted that the university has now become a significant scientific hub in the region with 19 campuses, 21 faculties, and 47 research centers [1]. Erenoğlu emphasized that the university's success in TÜBİTAK projects and international archaeological activities has made the name ÇOMÜ prominent in the scientific world. He described the opening of this museum as a necessity for preserving organizational culture and transmitting it to future generations [3].

Honoring Alumni and Innovative Programs Another part of the ceremony was dedicated to an alumni gathering and the introduction of the new "Mentor-Mentee" program. This program, introduced by Prof. Dr. Sena Erden Ayhün, aims to strengthen the communication network between experienced alumni and current students for sharing knowledge and experience [2]. Additionally, at the end of the ceremony, top students of the 2025-2026 academic year were honored with certificates of appreciation and special awards [1]. The event concluded with traditional refreshments and commemorative photos in the mansion's courtyard, reflecting the deep bond between the university and the historical fabric of Çanakkale.