Five of the school's heads gathered for the event, during which photographs of the school's 10 leaders, past and present, were unveiled on a newly established wall of honour.
Organisers said a Wall of Fame, devoted to notable Otago physical education graduates, had been established at the school several years ago.
It had since been decided to create a separate display to honour the school's leaders.
The present dean, Prof Douglas Booth, paid tribute to the school's leaders, its former directors and deans, beginning with the founding director, the late Prof Philip Smithells, who served from 1948-74.
Vice-chancellor Prof Sir David Skegg said Prof Smithells had set the school off to a "great start".
There had been further good leadership, and the school had built a national and international reputation.
