Introduction
Baldwin Wallace University (BW) is a private liberal arts university located in Berea, Ohio. Established in 1845, the university has a rich history and a vibrant campus community. BW is known for its commitment to academic excellence, experiential learning, and student success. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Baldwin Wallace University that you may not know.
Fun facts about Baldwin Wallace University
The Origin of the Name Baldwin Wallace University
Baldwin Wallace University was named after two prominent figures, John Baldwin and Thomas Wallace, who were instrumental in establishing the institution. John Baldwin was a businessman and philanthropist who donated $10,000 to the university in 1863. Thomas Wallace was a prominent Cleveland lawyer who served as the university’s first trustee.
The university was initially known as Baldwin Institute and then as Baldwin University until it merged with German Wallace College in 1913, becoming Baldwin-Wallace College. The institution adopted its current name, Baldwin Wallace University, in 2012 to reflect its growth and evolution as a comprehensive university.
The Legacy of George Finnie
George Finnie was an influential figure in the history of Baldwin Wallace University. Finnie served as the university’s first African American faculty member and dean of students. He was also instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion on campus.
Finnie’s legacy is celebrated every year during the George Finnie Day of Service, a day dedicated to service projects and community engagement in honor of his commitment to social justice. Additionally, the George Finnie Scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion on campus.
The Conservatory of Music
The Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music is one of the top music programs in the country, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of musical disciplines. The conservatory is home to over 600 students and 80 faculty members, who have collectively won numerous awards and accolades.
Notable alumni of the conservatory include Tony-winning Broadway composer Jason Robert Brown, Grammy-winning mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke, and Emmy-winning composer and conductor Joel McNeely.
BW’s Commitment to Sustainability
Baldwin Wallace University is committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The university’s Sustainability Committee works to promote sustainability on campus through programs such as the campus-wide recycling program, the use of renewable energy sources, and the installation of energy-efficient lighting.
In 2016, Baldwin Wallace University was awarded a STARS Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) for its sustainability efforts. Additionally, the university has been recognized as a Tree Campus USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to tree care and conservation.
The Bagpipe Band
The Baldwin Wallace Bagpipe Band is a unique and beloved tradition on campus. The band, which was founded in 1994, consists of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who play bagpipes and drums.
The Bagpipe Band is a staple of university events, including commencement, homecoming, and alumni gatherings. The band has also performed at various events outside of the university, including the Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland.
The Ritter Library
The Ritter Library is the main library on campus and is named after George Ritter, a former Baldwin Wallace faculty member and trustee. The library houses over 300,000 volumes and provides access to numerous electronic resources.
In addition to its vast collection of books and journals, the Ritter Library is also home to the university’s archives and special collections, which include historical documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the university’s history.
BW’s Athletic Program
Baldwin Wallace University has a strong athletic program that includes 22 varsity sports teams competing in the Ohio Athletic Conference. The Yellow Jackets have won numerous conference championships and have a rich history of success in both individual and team sports.
Notable athletic alumni of Baldwin Wallace include former NFL player and coach Paul Brown, former MLB player Craig Anderson, and Olympic gold medalist Harrison Dillard.
BW’s Study Abroad Programs
Baldwin Wallace University offers a variety of study abroad programs that allow students to gain valuable international experience while earning academic credit. The university has partnerships with over 40 institutions around the world and offers programs in countries such as England, France, Spain, and Japan.
In addition to traditional study abroad programs, Baldwin Wallace also offers alternative spring break trips and service learning opportunities abroad. These programs allow students to engage in meaningful service work while gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures and communities.
The Living Learning Communities
Baldwin Wallace University offers a unique living learning community program that allows students to live in intentional communities based on their interests and academic goals. These communities offer a supportive environment where students can connect with peers who share similar interests and passions.
Some of the living learning communities offered at Baldwin Wallace include the Sustainability House, the Honors Program Living Learning Community, and the Global Village. These communities provide opportunities for students to engage in co-curricular activities, community service, and leadership development.
BW’s Commitment to Service
Baldwin Wallace University has a strong commitment to service and civic engagement. The university’s Center for Community Engagement coordinates numerous service projects and volunteer opportunities for students throughout the year.
In addition to service opportunities on campus and in the local community, Baldwin Wallace also offers alternative spring break trips and international service learning programs. These programs allow students to engage in meaningful service work while developing their leadership skills and gaining a deeper understanding of global issues.
Conclusion
Baldwin Wallace University is a vibrant and dynamic institution that offers a rich academic and co-curricular experience for its students. From its commitment to sustainability and service to its top-ranked music program and unique living learning communities, Baldwin Wallace is a truly special place. These fun facts offer just a glimpse into the many facets of this outstanding university.