Introduction
Shepherd University is a public liberal arts university located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Founded in 1871, it has a rich history and is home to many interesting and unique facts. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most fun and fascinating facts about Shepherd University, ranging from its history to its campus and beyond.
History and Founding
Shepherd University was founded in 1871 as Shepherd College, named after its founder, David H. Shepherd. The college was initially a private institution, but in 1872 it was sold to the state of West Virginia and became a public college. At the time of its founding, Shepherd College was a normal school, which means it was primarily focused on training teachers. Over the years, the college evolved and expanded its offerings to include a wide range of liberal arts and professional programs. Today, Shepherd University is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to providing students with a well-rounded education.
One of the most interesting facts about the history of Shepherd University is that it played an important role in the Civil War. During the war, the college’s campus was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers. In fact, the college’s administration building, which was built in 1871, still bears the marks of bullets fired during the war. Another fascinating piece of history related to Shepherd University is that it was the first college in the United States to establish a music department, which it did in 1872.
Campus and Facilities
The Shepherd University campus is located on 323 acres in the scenic town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia. The campus is home to a number of unique and interesting facilities, including the Shepherd University Observatory. The observatory is located on the roof of the Scarborough Library and is used for both research and public outreach. It features a 14-inch telescope, which is used to observe the night sky and study celestial objects.
Another interesting facility on the Shepherd University campus is the Phaze 2 Gallery, which is part of the Contemporary Art and Theater Department. The gallery is located in the historic Entler Hotel building, which dates back to the late 1700s. The gallery hosts a variety of art exhibits and installations throughout the year and provides students with hands-on experience in curating and organizing art shows.
Notable Alumni
Shepherd University has a long list of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in a variety of fields. One of the most famous alumni is former NFL player and current ESPN analyst, Jalen Rose. Rose played football and basketball at Shepherd University before transferring to the University of Michigan, where he played basketball and helped lead the Wolverines to back-to-back NCAA Championship game appearances in 1992 and 1993.
Another notable Shepherd University alum is film producer and screenwriter Larry Shuman. Shuman has worked on a number of popular films, including “The Princess Diaries” and “The Devil Wears Prada.” He also produced the 2016 film “La La Land,” which was nominated for multiple Academy Awards.
Student Life
and Traditions Shepherd University has a vibrant student life and is home to a number of unique traditions. One of the most popular traditions is the annual “Rams Week” celebration, which takes place in the fall semester. Rams Week is a week-long celebration that includes a variety of events, such as a pep rally, talent show, and the crowning of the Rams King and Queen.
Another popular tradition at Shepherd University is the “Petra Gladioli” ceremony. This ceremony takes place during graduation and involves the presentation of a red gladiolus flower to each graduate. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century and is said to represent the strength and resilience of Shepherd graduates.
In addition to these traditions, Shepherd University also has a thriving student organization culture. There are over 70 student organizations on campus, ranging from academic clubs to social and recreational groups. Some of the most popular student organizations include the Campus Kitchens Project, the Environmental Studies Club, and the Student Government Association.
Academic Programs and Achievements
Shepherd University offers a wide range of academic programs, including majors in the liberal arts, sciences, business, education, and more. The university is particularly known for its strong programs in nursing, education, and music. In fact, the university’s music program is widely considered one of the best in the state of West Virginia.
Shepherd University has also achieved a number of notable academic accomplishments over the years. In 2019, the university was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top public regional universities in the South. The university has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, earning a “silver” rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shepherd University is a fascinating and unique institution with a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence. From its role in the Civil War to its thriving student life and academic programs, there is no shortage of interesting and fun facts to explore about this remarkable university. Whether you’re a current student, a proud alum, or simply interested in learning more about higher education in West Virginia, Shepherd University is definitely worth a closer look.