Introduction
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is a prestigious liberal arts college situated in the small town of Wise, Virginia. It has a rich history and an exceptional academic program that attracts students from all over the world. Founded in 1954, this institution has grown in popularity and has become a highly respected college in the United States. There are many fun facts about The University of Virginia’s College at Wise that are worth exploring, and this blog post aims to provide you with some fascinating insights into this renowned college.
The College’s Unique Campus
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise boasts a beautiful and unique campus. It is situated on a hilltop, which provides stunning views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. The campus has an area of 369 acres and is home to more than 30 academic and administrative buildings. One of the most notable buildings on the campus is the Leonard W. Sandridge Science Center, which features state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities.
The College’s campus also includes a number of outdoor recreational facilities, such as tennis and basketball courts, a fitness trail, and a disc golf course. The college even has its own observatory, which is equipped with a 14-inch telescope and is used for stargazing and research.
Notable Alumni
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has a long list of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields. One such alumnus is John C. Cook, who is the CEO of Apple Hospitality REIT, a company that owns and operates hotels across the United States. Another successful alumnus is Naveed Khawaja, who is the co-founder and CEO of Breezeway, a property management software company.
The college has also produced a number of successful politicians, including two former governors of Virginia, Mark Warner and Tim Kaine. Other notable alumni include Kevin Wilson, a best-selling author, and Paul Bratcher, a professor of engineering at Virginia Tech.
The College’s Athletic Programs
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is home to several athletic programs that compete at the NCAA Division II level. The college has men’s and women’s teams in basketball, soccer, cross country, and tennis, among other sports. The mascot of the college’s athletic teams is the Cavalier, which pays tribute to the historical connection to the University of Virginia.
One of the most successful athletic programs at the college is the men’s basketball team, which has won numerous conference championships and has made several appearances in the NCAA Division II tournament. The college also has a strong soccer program, with the women’s team winning the conference championship in 2019.
The College’s Artistic Community
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has a thriving artistic community that includes programs in music, theater, and the visual arts. The college has a state-of-the-art performance space, the David J. Prior Convocation Center, which hosts concerts, plays, and other events throughout the year.
The college also has a renowned music program, which includes both instrumental and vocal ensembles. The college’s choirs have performed at venues across the United States, including Carnegie Hall in New York City. The visual arts program at the college includes courses in painting, drawing, and sculpture, and the college hosts several exhibitions each year featuring the work of its students and faculty.
The College’s Commitment to Sustainability
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The college has a recycling program that collects paper, cardboard, plastic, and aluminum, and it also has a composting program that converts food waste into nutrient-rich soil for use in the college’s gardens and landscaping.
The college has also implemented several energy conservation measures, including the installation of energy-efficient lighting and the use of geothermal heating and cooling systems in some buildings. In addition, the college has a green roof on one of its buildings, which helps to reduce stormwater runoff and provides insulation.
The College’s Outreach Programs
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has a strong commitment to serving its community, both locally and globally. The college has several outreach programs that provide educational opportunities and support to underserved populations.
One such program is the Appalachian Prosperity Project, which aims to support economic development in the Appalachian region by providing training and support to entrepreneurs and small business owners. The college also has a program called SWVA Grow, which provides resources and support to farmers in the region.
The college’s outreach efforts also extend beyond the United States. The college has a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, which provides support to communities in developing countries around the world. The college also offers study abroad programs that allow students to gain a global perspective and engage with different cultures.
The College’s Cultural Events
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and performances. These events bring together members of the college community and the broader public to engage with diverse perspectives and ideas.
One of the most popular cultural events at the college is the UVa-Wise Highland Games, which celebrate Scottish heritage and culture. The event features traditional Highland games, such as caber tossing and stone putting, as well as music, food, and other activities.
The college also hosts an annual Appalachian Festival, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. The festival includes music, dance, crafts, and food, and it attracts visitors from across the region.
The College’s Research Opportunities
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in research and scholarly activities. The college has several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Appalachian Studies and the Center for Student Research.
The college also offers a Summer Research Fellowship program, which provides students with funding and support to conduct research over the summer months. The college’s faculty members are also active researchers, and they work closely with students to mentor and guide them in their research pursuits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is a truly exceptional institution that offers a unique and enriching academic experience. From its stunning campus and successful athletic programs to its thriving artistic community and commitment to sustainability, there is much to admire about this college. With its strong focus on community engagement and research, it is no wonder that The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has become a leader in higher education.
