Introduction
Belhaven University is a private Christian university located in Jackson, Mississippi, United States. Established in 1883, it is one of the oldest institutions in the region and has a rich history. However, there is more to Belhaven than just its history. The university has a lot of fascinating facts and traditions that students and faculty alike hold dear. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Belhaven University.
Belhaven’s Mascot, The Blazers
Belhaven University’s mascot is the Blazers. The name “Blazers” was adopted in the 1950s when the university’s basketball team wore blazers as their team uniform. However, the original name for the mascot was the Belhaven Bruins. The change to Blazers was influenced by a visit from an English football team in the 1950s. The team was nicknamed “the Blazers,” and the name caught on with the Belhaven community. Today, the Blazers can be seen at sporting events, encouraging the university’s teams to victory.
Belhaven’s Beautiful Campus
Belhaven’s campus is one of the most beautiful in the region. It covers 42 acres and is situated in a residential area of Jackson. The campus is full of oak trees, magnolias, and dogwood trees that bloom beautifully in the spring. The historic buildings on campus are also a sight to behold. The Fitzhugh Hall, built-in 1927, is a three-story building made of red brick that houses the School of Business. The McCravey-Triplett Student Center is another beautiful building on campus that houses the bookstore, post office, and game room. The campus also features a beautiful lake and a Japanese garden that provides a peaceful and serene environment for students to relax and unwind.
Belhaven’s Department of Dance
Belhaven University is known for its exceptional Department of Dance, which is one of the best in the region. The Department offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance degree program, which prepares students for careers in dance and related fields. The program covers various dance styles, including modern, ballet, jazz, and tap. The Department of Dance also hosts several performances throughout the year, including the Christmas Dance Concert, Spring Dance Concert, and the Emerging Choreographers Showcase. These performances showcase the talent and hard work of the students and faculty in the Department of Dance.
Belhaven’s Beloved President
Dr. Roger Parrott is the president of Belhaven University and is beloved by the Belhaven community. Dr. Parrott has been the president of Belhaven since 1995 and has overseen significant growth and development of the university during his tenure. Under his leadership, the university has increased its enrollment, added new academic programs, and expanded its campus. Dr. Parrott is also a prolific author and has written several books, including The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders and The World Is Flat: A Christian’s Guide to the New Global Era.
Belhaven’s Department of Music
The Department of Music at Belhaven University is another exceptional department that offers students an opportunity to explore their musical talents. The Department offers a Bachelor of Music degree program, which covers various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and contemporary. The Department of Music also hosts several performances throughout the year, including the Christmas Choral Concert, Spring Musical, and the Chamber Music Festival. These performances showcase the talent and hard work of the students and faculty in the Department of Music.
Belhaven’s Commitment to Community Service
Belhaven University is committed to community service and encourages its students to get involved in service projects. The university partners with several local organizations, including the Mississippi Food Network and Habitat for Humanity, to provide students with opportunities to serve their community. The university also hosts an annual service day, where students, faculty, and staff come together to volunteer at various non-profit organizations in the community. This commitment to community service is one of the core values of Belhaven University and is instilled in students from the moment they step on campus.
Belhaven’s Sports Teams
Belhaven University has a strong athletic program with teams competing in several sports. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC). The university’s sports teams include men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, cross country, golf, and tennis, as well as women’s volleyball and softball. The Blazers have had success in various sports, with several conference championships and even a national championship in men’s soccer in 2012.
Belhaven’s Christian Heritage
Belhaven University was founded on Christian principles, and the university’s commitment to its Christian heritage is still evident today. The university offers several Christian studies programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies and a Master of Ministry degree. The university also hosts several events throughout the year, including Chapel services and Bible studies, to promote spiritual growth and development among students. The university’s commitment to its Christian heritage is an essential part of its identity and is something that students and faculty value greatly.
Belhaven’s Film Production Program
Belhaven University’s Department of Communication offers a unique program in film production. The program prepares students for careers in film and television production by providing hands-on experience in various aspects of the industry. Students in the program learn about screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and editing, among other things. The program also hosts several film festivals throughout the year, including the Deep Focus Film Festival, which showcases the work of students in the program. The film production program at Belhaven University is an excellent option for students interested in pursuing a career in the film industry.
Conclusion
Belhaven University is a vibrant and exciting institution with a lot of fascinating facts and traditions. From its beautiful campus to its exceptional academic programs, the university has a lot to offer students and faculty alike. The university’s commitment to community service, its Christian heritage, and its success in athletics are all part of what makes Belhaven a unique and special place. Whether you are a current student or just interested in learning more about the university, these fun facts about Belhaven are sure to impress.
