SFSU History

• SFSU was founded in 1899 and named “San Francisco State Normal School,” a two-year teacher-training college.

• The first class graduated in 1899 and was comprised of 36 women.

• The first man was admitted in 1904.

• The first bachelor’s degree was awarded in 1923.

• SFSU has had five names throughout history:
- San Francisco State Normal School (1899-1921)
- California State Teachers College (1921-1935)
- San Francisco State College (1935-1972)
- CSU, San Francisco (1972-1974)
- San Francisco State University (1974-present)

• As part of the 23-campus California State University (CSU), SFSU is part of the largest system of higher education in the U.S.

• Our school motto is “Experientia Docet” (Experiences Teaches) because of our origins as a teacher-training college.

• Our school colors are purple and gold.

• Our school mascot is the aligator.