The University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing had something extra to celebrate during the holiday season. The school marked its 50th anniversary with a gala at the University Center Ballroom.

Current and past leaders who played a significant role in its first 50 years were honored - "50 Leaders for 50 Years."

"As we celebrate the past five decades and the momentum that has fueled our distinguished past, we know the best is truly yet to come," Dr. Lin Zhan, dean of the college, told the 2oo guests during her remarks.

She recognized event sponsors Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare and Baptist Memorial Health Care and also thanked the Lichterman-Loewenberg family for "continuously investing resources into nursing and has helping the Loewenberg College grow. We are so grateful to the Lichterman-Loewenberg Foundation for its legacy of philanthropy and commitment to our students, faculty and staff."