Rhodes College was founded in 1848 in Clarksville, TN, but in 1925, President Charles E. Diehl made the momentous decision to move the college to Memphis, believing that a move to a larger city would help to secure the college’s future. One hundred years on, Rhodes College proudly stands as everything Diehl envisioned when he sought the move: a world-class college, closely intertwined with its city, that continues to prioritize intellectual engagement and service to others.
Memphis is known for its blues and barbecue, but it is much more than that. It’s a city with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, rich music heritage, a unique history, and deep culture. Rhodes students intern for Fortune 500 and 1000 companies, complete fellowships at Memphis nonprofits, and conduct high-impact undergraduate research, from assisting in the labs at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to studying animal behavior at the Memphis Zoo. These and other unique and immersive opportunities can be found through Rhodes' Lynne and Henry Turley Memphis Center for Community Engagement, the Buckman Center for Global Engagement, and the Wilson Center for Interdisciplinary Humanities.
Featuring Muneer Nasser, The Rhodes Jazz Ensemble, and the Rhodes Faculty Players
Join us for the 2025 edition of the Rhodes Night at the Shell! Celebrating our 100th year in Memphis, gather with faculty, staff, and fellow alumni on Thursday, October 23, as we celebrate our centennial with a lively concert in the famous Midtown Memphis venue.
Headlining our anniversary concert is trumpeter, composer, jazz historian, and author Muneer Nasser. Nasser bears the legacy of two rich musical careers; his father, bassist Jamil Nasser, hailed from Memphis before decamping to New York City and performed alongside iconic musicians such as fellow Memphian Phineas Newborn Jr., Red Garland, and Thelonius Monk. Muneer’s music weaves together a rich tapestry of influences, combining historic Memphis blues and New York pizzazz to create his very own brand of distinct jazz.
As the centerpiece of our 100 Years in Memphis programming, Muneer Nasser will perform alongside the Rhodes Jazz Ensemble and the Rhodes Faculty Players. And, perhaps keep an eye out for a certain bowtie-clad guest performer among the players!
