Introduction
Brenau University is a private university located in Gainesville, Georgia, with a rich history dating back to 1878. Brenau has established itself as a leading institution for women’s education, but it also welcomes men and has a diverse student body. In this post, we will explore some fun facts about Brenau University that you may not have known before.
The Brenau Bell Tower
The Brenau Bell Tower is an iconic symbol of Brenau University. It was built in 1920 and stands at 89 feet tall, with a carillon of 47 bells. The bells are played every day at noon and 6 pm and can be heard throughout the campus and the surrounding community. The tower is also used for various celebrations and events, including graduation ceremonies and weddings.
One interesting fact about the Brenau Bell Tower is that it was originally built as a memorial to Brenau students who lost their lives in World War I. It has since become a symbol of the university’s commitment to education and service.
The Gainesville Campus
Brenau University’s Gainesville campus is the main campus of the university, and it is located in the heart of Gainesville, Georgia. The campus spans over 57 acres and includes 26 buildings, including academic buildings, residence halls, and administrative buildings.
One fun fact about the Gainesville campus is that it was once a hospital during World War II. In 1942, the United States government leased the campus to the U.S. Army, and it was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers. After the war, the campus was returned to Brenau University and has been used for educational purposes ever since.
The Brenau Golden Tigers
The Brenau Golden Tigers are the university’s athletic teams, and they compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Golden Tigers compete in a variety of sports, including basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, swimming, and tennis.
One fun fact about the Brenau Golden Tigers is that the women’s swim team has won 8 national championships in the NAIA. The team has a long history of success, with their first national championship coming in 2002. In addition to their national championships, the team has also won numerous conference championships and has produced several All-American swimmers.
The Brenau Galleries
The Brenau Galleries are a collection of art galleries located on the Gainesville campus of Brenau University. The galleries include the Sellars Gallery, the Presidents Gallery, and the Leo Castelli Gallery. The galleries showcase a variety of art, including contemporary art, photography, and traditional art.
One fun fact about the Brenau Galleries is that they are home to the largest collection of works by American artist Joni Mabe. Mabe is known for her artwork made from bottle caps and other found objects, and her work has been featured in galleries and museums around the world. The Brenau Galleries also feature a permanent collection of artwork by Brenau University students, faculty, and alumni.
The Brenau Trustee Library
The Brenau Trustee Library is the main library on the Gainesville campus of Brenau University. The library is home to over 200,000 volumes of books, as well as electronic resources, archives, and special collections. The library also features a variety of study spaces and a cafe.
One fun fact about the Brenau Trustee Library is that it is home to a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a copy of the Gutenberg Bible. The Gutenberg Bible is one of the earliest books printed with movable type, and it is considered one of the most important books in the history of printing.
Conclusion
Brenau University is a unique institution with a rich history and a commitment to education and service. From the iconic Brenau Bell Tower to the success of the Brenau Golden Tigers and the Brenau Galleries’ impressive art collection, Brenau University has many fascinating aspects that make it stand out. Whether you are a student, alumna/alumnus, or simply interested in the history and culture of higher education, Brenau University is a fascinating institution to explore. With its dedication to education, its vibrant campus life, and its commitment to service, Brenau University is a true gem in the world of higher education. We hope these fun facts have given you a deeper appreciation for this incredible institution.