Introduction
William Peace University is a private liberal arts institution located in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. The university was established in 1857 as Peace Institute, a women’s college, and was named after William Peace, a local Presbyterian minister. In 2011, the college became coeducational, and its name was changed to William Peace University. Over the years, the university has grown to become a prominent institution of higher education in the Southeast, offering a wide range of academic programs to its students. In this post, we’ll explore some fun facts about William Peace University that you may not know.
William Peace University’s Campus is Rich in History
The campus of William Peace University is steeped in history, dating back to the mid-19th century. The university’s Main Building, which was completed in 1856, is the oldest surviving educational building in Raleigh. It was used as a hospital during the Civil War and later served as a headquarters for the Union Army. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a Raleigh Historic Landmark.
Another notable building on campus is the Pressly Hall, which was built in 1902 and originally served as a dormitory for students. Today, the building houses the Office of Admissions, the Office of Financial Aid, and the Office of the Registrar. The building is named after Dr. E. M. Pressly, who served as the president of Peace Institute from 1910 to 1938.
William Peace University is a Leader in Environmental Sustainability
William Peace University is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and has taken several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. The university has implemented a recycling program and has installed energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems across its campus. The university’s latest addition, the Hermann Athletic Center, is a LEED Gold certified building that features a green roof, solar panels, and a rainwater harvesting system.
The university has also partnered with local organizations to promote sustainability in the community. In 2019, William Peace University became the first university in Raleigh to sign the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, pledging to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
William Peace University is Home to a Vibrant Community of International Students
William Peace University is home to a diverse student body, with students from over 25 countries studying on campus. The university’s International Student Services Office offers support to international students, helping them with immigration issues, cultural adjustment, and academic advising. The university also hosts several events throughout the year to celebrate the diversity of its student body, such as the International Festival and the Cultural Dance Night.
The university’s commitment to international education is reflected in its academic programs as well. The university offers several study abroad programs, allowing students to study in countries such as France, Spain, and Japan. The university also offers an International Studies major, which combines coursework in politics, economics, and culture to prepare students for careers in international relations.
William Peace University Offers Unique Programs for Women’s Leadership
As a former women’s college, William Peace University has a strong commitment to promoting women’s leadership. The university offers several programs and initiatives to empower women and prepare them for leadership roles in their communities and careers.
One such program is the Women’s Leadership Institute, which offers a two-year curriculum that focuses on developing leadership skills and promoting social justice. The program includes workshops, mentorship opportunities, and a capstone project where students work on a community project related to women’s leadership.
Another program is the Women’s Studies minor, which explores the role of women in society and history. The minor combines coursework in literature, history, and sociology to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of women’s experiences and
William Peace University’s Athletics Program is Growing Strong
William Peace University has a thriving athletics program, with 18 NCAA Division III teams competing in the USA South Athletic Conference. The university’s teams, which include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball, have achieved significant success in recent years, with several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
In addition to its varsity athletics program, William Peace University also offers a thriving intramural sports program, which includes sports such as flag football, dodgeball, and ultimate frisbee. The university’s Hermann Athletic Center, which opened in 2019, features state-of-the-art facilities, including a gymnasium, weight room, and indoor track.
William Peace University Offers a Personalized Learning Experience
At William Peace University, students enjoy a personalized learning experience that is tailored to their individual interests and goals. The university’s small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio allow for personalized attention from professors and opportunities for hands-on learning.
The university’s Center for Academic Success and Advising provides academic support to students, offering services such as tutoring, study skills workshops, and academic coaching. The university also offers several honors and leadership programs, such as the Explorations in Leadership Program, which provides students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills through coursework, mentorship, and experiential learning.
Conclusion
William Peace University is a unique and vibrant institution that offers students a diverse range of academic programs, a commitment to sustainability and social justice, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re interested in history, women’s leadership, athletics, or international education, William Peace University has something to offer.