QUINCY, IL -- Illinois Governor Pat Quinn visited Quincy Saturday afternoon to celebrate and congratulate Quincy University on its upcoming 150th Anniversary.

Governor Quinn arrived near QU Stadium where he also presented a Hometown Hero Award to an area veteran.

Scott Thoele, who serves in the Armed Services, graduated from Quincy University in the early 80's.

QU's celebration isn't over just yet. A founding celebration weekend is scheduled for this February.

For those of you who don't know, QU's history and heritage flow from the story of St. Francis and the first friars; St. Clare and her first sisters; and the early Franciscan movement eight centuries ago in Italy.

Governor Quinn said, "It's important to remember that service to others is the rent we pay for our place on God's earth. The Franciscans have practiced that ethic of service since Day 1."

The university also has a number of concerts and celebrations planned for alumni during homecoming weekend in late October.