Introduction
Ferrum College is a small, private, liberal arts college located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia. The college was founded in 1913 and has a rich history and culture that has developed over the years. Ferrum College is known for its strong academics, athletic programs, and community engagement. In this blog post, we will explore some fun and interesting facts about Ferrum College that you may not have known before.
Fun facts about Ferrum College
Campus Traditions
Ferrum College has a number of unique and interesting campus traditions that help to create a strong sense of community and pride among students, faculty, and alumni. One of the most popular traditions is the annual Homecoming celebration, which takes place in October each year. During Homecoming, alumni return to campus to reconnect with old friends and classmates, attend sporting events, and participate in a variety of other activities.
Another popular tradition at Ferrum is the annual Spring Fling, which features carnival rides, games, and live music. Additionally, Ferrum College has a number of smaller traditions that are unique to the school, such as the “Welcome to Ferrum” sign, which has become an iconic symbol of the campus.
One of the most unique traditions at Ferrum College is the annual “Hog Call” competition. This tradition dates back to the 1930s and involves students competing to see who can produce the best hog call. The competition is held each fall and is judged by a panel of faculty members and local community members. The winner of the competition receives a prize and bragging rights until the next year’s competition.
Athletics
Ferrum College has a strong athletic program that has produced many successful student-athletes over the years. The college competes in the NCAA Division III and is a member of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The school offers a variety of sports for both men and women, including football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and cross country.
One of the most interesting facts about Ferrum College athletics is that the football team has a live ram as its mascot. The ram is named “Beau” and is cared for by a team of students and staff members. Beau attends all of the football games and has become a beloved symbol of the Ferrum College community.
In addition to traditional sports, Ferrum College also offers a number of unique athletic programs. For example, the college has a competitive bass fishing team that participates in tournaments throughout the region. The team has won several championships and has become a source of pride for the college.
Campus Facilities
Ferrum College has a number of impressive campus facilities that help to enhance the student experience. One of the most notable facilities is the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum, which is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the music, art, and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The museum features a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the unique heritage of the region.
Another impressive facility at Ferrum College is the Stanley Library, which houses over 200,000 volumes of books, journals, and other materials. The library also features a number of study rooms, computer labs, and other resources that are available to students.
Ferrum College also has a state-of-the-art athletic center that features a weight room, indoor track, basketball court, and other fitness facilities. The center is open to all students and provides a great place to stay active and healthy.
Community Engagement
Ferrum College is deeply committed to community engagement and service. The school offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in service projects and volunteer work, both on and off campus. One of the most notable service programs at Ferrum College is the Bonner Scholars Program, which provides scholarships to students who are committed to making a difference in their communities. The program requires students to complete a minimum of 280 hours of service each academic year, and provides them with training and support to help them develop their leadership and service skills.
Ferrum College also has a number of community partnerships and initiatives that allow students to work with local organizations and businesses to address community needs. For example, the school has a partnership with the local food bank that allows students to volunteer and help distribute food to those in need. Additionally, the college offers a variety of service-learning courses that allow students to earn academic credit while also completing service projects.
Notable Alumni
Ferrum College has produced a number of notable alumni over the years, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success in their fields. One of the most notable alumni is the late Dr. Joseph W. Martin Jr., who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for over 40 years and was a respected leader in the field of public health. Dr. Martin was also a strong advocate for education and played a key role in securing federal funding for Ferrum College.
Another notable alum is musician and songwriter David Via, who has become a well-known figure in the bluegrass and Americana music scene. Via has released several albums and has performed at festivals and venues around the country.
Other notable Ferrum College alumni include professional golfer Brandon Jessee, former NFL player Carl Smith, and award-winning journalist and author Dan Casey.
Conclusion
Ferrum College is a small but vibrant community that offers a unique and rewarding college experience. From its campus traditions to its strong athletic programs, impressive facilities, and commitment to community engagement, Ferrum College has a lot to offer students and alumni alike. Whether you are a prospective student, a current student, or an alum, there is always something new and interesting to discover about this special place.