Introduction
Saint Augustine College is a small, private college located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Founded in 1896 by the Episcopal Church, the college has a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence. While the college may not be as well-known as some of the larger universities in the area, it has a number of fun and interesting facts that make it a unique and special place.
The College’s Name and History
Saint Augustine College was named after Saint Augustine of Hippo, a theologian and philosopher who lived in the fourth and fifth centuries. Saint Augustine is known for his writings on Christian theology and philosophy, and he is considered one of the most important figures in the history of Western thought. The college’s founders chose his name to reflect their commitment to a liberal arts education that emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and intellectual inquiry.
The college has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It was founded in 1896 by the Episcopal Church as a school for African American students. At the time, there were few educational opportunities for African Americans in the South, and the church saw the need for a college that would provide a quality education to this underserved population. Over the years, the college has evolved and expanded, but its commitment to serving its students and its community has remained a constant.
The College’s Campus and Location
Saint Augustine College is located in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, just a few miles from downtown. The college’s campus is small and intimate, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. The campus is also home to the Saint Augustine University Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The district includes several buildings that are over a century old, including the original Saint Agnes Hospital, which was built in 1896 and now serves as the college’s library.
The college’s location in Raleigh makes it an ideal place for students who want to be close to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Raleigh is home to several museums, theaters, and music venues, as well as a number of restaurants and shops. The city is also known for its parks and outdoor spaces, including the Raleigh Greenway, a network of trails that runs throughout the city and connects to several other greenways in the area.
The College’s Academic Programs
Saint Augustine College offers a variety of academic programs, including majors in business, criminal justice, education, and social work. The college also has a strong liberal arts program that emphasizes critical thinking and intellectual inquiry. In addition to its undergraduate programs, the college also offers a master’s degree in business administration.
One unique aspect of Saint Augustine College’s academic programs is its focus on experiential learning. The college encourages students to get involved in their community through internships, service-learning projects, and other hands-on experiences. These opportunities allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations and gain valuable skills and experience that will prepare them for their future careers.
The College’s Student Body
Saint Augustine College has a diverse student body that includes students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. The college has a strong commitment to serving first-generation college students and students from underrepresented communities. The majority of the college’s students are African American, but the college also has a growing population of Hispanic and Latino students.
The college’s small size and intimate campus create a close-knit community where students can form meaningful relationships with their peers and with faculty members. The college also offers a variety of student organizations and activities, including clubs, sports teams, and community service groups.
The College’s Athletic Program
Saint Augustine College has a strong athletic program that includes several sports teams, including basketball, volleyball, and cross-country. The college also has a marching band and a cheerleading squad. The athletics program emphasizes academic success as well as athletic achievement, and many of the college’s athletes are also outstanding students.
One fun fact about the college’s athletic program is that its mascot is a falcon named Gus. Gus can be seen at many of the college’s athletic events, and he has become a beloved symbol of the college’s spirit and pride.
The College’s Commitment to Service
Saint Augustine College has a strong commitment to serving its community, both locally and globally. The college’s service-learning program encourages students to get involved in their community through projects and activities that address local needs. The college also has a number of partnerships with local organizations and nonprofits, and many students are involved in volunteer work throughout the year.
In addition to its local service initiatives, Saint Augustine College also has a strong commitment to global service. The college has several study abroad programs that allow students to travel and learn in other countries, and many students participate in service trips to other parts of the world. These experiences provide students with a global perspective and a deeper understanding of the challenges facing communities around the world.
The College’s Alumni Network
Saint Augustine College has a strong alumni network that includes graduates from a variety of fields and professions. Many alumni are leaders in their communities and have made significant contributions to society. The college’s alumni are actively involved in supporting the college and its students, and many serve as mentors and advocates for current students.
One notable Saint Augustine College alum is Dr. Charles Drew, a physician and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of blood transfusion. Dr. Drew attended Saint Augustine College in the 1920s and went on to become one of the most important medical researchers of the 20th century.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Saint Augustine College may be a small college, but it has a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence and community service. Its intimate campus, diverse student body, and unique academic programs make it a special and unique place. Whether you’re a current student, an alum, or simply someone interested in learning more about the college, there are many fun and interesting facts to discover about this hidden gem in Raleigh, North Carolina.