Introduction
Founded in 1908, the University of Mary Washington is a public liberal arts university in Fredericksburg, Virginia. With its beautiful campus, small class sizes, and vibrant student life, it’s no wonder why UMW is one of the most popular choices for college students in the state. But what are some of the most interesting facts about this historic university? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most fascinating and fun facts about UMW. From its rich history to its modern-day accomplishments, the University of Mary Washington is a school with plenty to be proud of.
The Founding of UMW
The University of Mary Washington was established in 1908, when the Virginia General Assembly passed a bill to create the State Normal and Industrial School for Women. The school was named in honor of Mary Washington, the mother of George Washington. It was the first state-supported college for women in Virginia.
The school was originally intended to provide a liberal arts education for women, as well as to teach them the skills necessary for employment. In 1944, the school was renamed the State Teachers College at Fredericksburg, and in 1972, it was renamed the University of Mary Washington.
The School’s Accomplishments
Since its founding, the University of Mary Washington has achieved many accomplishments. In 2011, the school was ranked among the top public liberal arts universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The school is also ranked among the top universities in the South by the Princeton Review.
In addition, UMW has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability. The school was one of the first universities in the nation to receive a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Notable Alumni
The University of Mary Washington has produced many notable alumni, including a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, a former U.S. Senator, and a former U.S. Secretary of Education.
One of the school’s most famous alumni is Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author David Halberstam. Halberstam graduated from UMW in 1955 and went on to become one of the most respected journalists of his time. He won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 1964 for his reporting on the Vietnam War.
Another notable UMW alumnus is former U.S. Senator and Secretary of Education Lamar Alexander. Alexander graduated from the school in 1962 and went on to serve as the 45th Governor of Tennessee and the U.S. Secretary of Education under President George H.W. Bush.
The University’s Traditions
The University of Mary Washington has a number of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. One of the most popular is the annual “Yard Show,” which is a student-run performance of Broadway-style musicals held each spring.
Another popular tradition is the “Ring Dance,” which is held each April. During the Ring Dance, graduating seniors receive their class rings and celebrate their upcoming graduation.
The University’s Mascot
The University of Mary Washington’s mascot is the Eagle. The Eagle mascot was adopted in the late 1960s and has been a symbol of the school ever since. The school’s sports teams are nicknamed the Eagles, and the school’s official colors are blue and gray.
The University’s Campus
The University of Mary Washington’s campus is located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and is spread out over 400 acres. The campus is known for its beautiful and historic buildings, including the iconic George Washington Hall, which was built in the late 19th century.
The campus also features a number of outdoor spaces, including the Eagle’s Nest, a grassy area with a view of the Rappahannock River, and the University Mall, a central green space with a fountain and benches.
Conclusion
The University of Mary Washington is a historic and vibrant university with a rich history and many accomplishments. From its founding in 1908 to its modern-day accomplishments, UMW is a school with plenty to be proud of. From its notable alumni and traditions to its beautiful campus and mascot, the University of Mary Washington is a school with plenty of fun facts to explore.