Introduction
Virginia Union University (VUU) is a private, historically black university located in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1865, the university has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing its students with a quality education. While there is much to know about VUU, there are some fun facts that you may not be aware of. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the most interesting and unusual facts about Virginia Union University.
Fun facts about Virginia Union University
The Founding of VUU
One of the most interesting facts about Virginia Union University is its founding. The university was established in 1865, just after the end of the Civil War, as a theological seminary for African American men. The school was founded by the American Baptist Home Mission Society, which was dedicated to promoting the education of African Americans in the post-war South. Over time, the school expanded its curriculum to include other subjects, and eventually became a full-fledged university.
Notable Alumni
Virginia Union University has a long list of notable alumni, many of whom have made significant contributions to their fields. One of the most well-known alumni is L. Douglas Wilder, who became the first African American to be elected as governor of a U.S. state in 1989. Wilder attended VUU in the 1950s and later went on to serve as mayor of Richmond and as a U.S. senator. Other notable alumni include former NFL player and coach Willie Lanier, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Lorraine Adams, and civil rights activist Wyatt Tee Walker.
The Campus
The Virginia Union University campus is home to a number of interesting and unique features. One of the most notable is the Coburn Hall clock tower, which is one of the tallest structures on campus. The clock tower was built in 1899 and has become a symbol of the university. The campus also features the Belgian Building, which was constructed in 1899 and originally served as a residence hall for women. Today, the building is home to the university’s administration offices.
The Athletics Program
Virginia Union University has a strong athletics program, with a number of successful sports teams. One of the most successful teams is the men’s basketball team, which has won three NCAA Division II National Championships. The team has also produced a number of professional basketball players, including Ben Wallace, who went on to play for the Detroit Pistons and was a four-time NBA All-Star.
The Gospel Choir
The Virginia Union University Gospel Choir is one of the most well-known student groups on campus. The choir has been performing for over 30 years and has gained a reputation for its powerful performances. The choir has performed at a number of events and venues, including the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and the White House.
The Richmond Promise
In 2020, Virginia Union University announced the Richmond Promise, a program that guarantees free tuition for Richmond Public School graduates who meet certain requirements. The program is designed to help make higher education more accessible to students in the local community and to help address issues of inequality and economic mobility.
Conclusion
Virginia Union University is a unique and special place, with a rich history and a commitment to providing its students with a quality education. From its founding to its current programs and initiatives, there is much to be learned and appreciated about this historic institution. Whether you are a current student, a prospective student, or simply someone interested in learning more about VUU, there is no doubt that there is much to discover and appreciate about this remarkable university.
