NACOGDOCHES, Texas - In celebration of Stephen F. Austin State University's 85th anniversary, cake and ice cream will be served at noon Thursday at the Baker Pattillo Student Center plaza.

The public is invited to take part in the celebration, which will be attended by university administration, faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends of SFA, as well as local dignitaries. Other special events marking the anniversary are planned for later in the academic year.

"Every anniversary is a time for reflection, celebration and planning for the opportunities and responsibilities of the future," said Dr. Baker Pattillo, SFA president.

In conjunction with the university's 85th anniversary, four historical markers approved by the Texas Historical Commission will be placed on campus in the coming months. One will recognize Birdwell Field, Aikman Gym and the Women's Recreation Center as the first student centers at SFA. Another will honor the contributions of Paul Lewis Boynton, SFA's second president, for his contributions during and after World War II. And two markers will honor the historical significance of the Stone Fort; the first will tell the story of the Old Stone Fort building, and the second will honor the pioneering impact of the Stone Fort Museum since 1936.

For more information about the history of SFA, visit www.cets.sfasu.edu/story.