Introduction
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is an historically black university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Founded in 1892, it is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. WSSU has a long and rich history of service to the community and has been a beacon of hope for generations of students. This university is not only known for its academic excellence, but also for its unique culture and traditions. Here are some fun facts about WSSU that you may not know.
A Rich History
WSSU was founded as Slater Industrial Academy in 1892 by Dr. Simon Green Atkins and the Slater Industrial and State Normal School in 1895. The school was originally established to educate African-Americans in the Winston-Salem area, and the school has since grown to become a major university. In 1969, the school was renamed Winston-Salem State University and is now the largest historically black university in the state of North Carolina.
Unique Traditions
WSSU is known for its unique traditions. One of the most popular traditions is the “Ram Jam”, which is an annual pep rally held on the first Friday of each school year. The Ram Jam is a chance for the entire school to come together and celebrate the start of a new school year. There are also several other traditions, such as the “Rams Roar”, which is a cheer performed at football games and other events, and the “Ram Walk”, which is a parade that takes place on campus.
Athletics
WSSU is also known for its strong athletics program. The school’s athletic teams, known as the Rams, compete in the NCAA Division II Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). The Rams have won numerous conference championships and national championships in various sports, including basketball, football, and track and field. The football team has also won the Black College National Championship multiple times.
Notable Alumni
WSSU has produced many notable alumni over the years, including several professional athletes, politicians, and business leaders. Notable alumni include NBA Hall of Famer Earl Monroe, NFL Hall of Famer Mel Blount, and former US Senator Kay Hagan.
Campus Life
WSSU is known for its vibrant campus life. The university offers a variety of activities and events for students, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events. There are also numerous student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, that provide students with the opportunity to get involved in campus life.
Academic Excellence
WSSU is also known for its academic excellence. The university offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and its faculty is dedicated to providing students with a quality education. The university also has several research centers and institutes that focus on areas such as health sciences, public policy, and sustainability.
Community Service
Finally, WSSU is also known for its commitment to community service. The university is actively involved in the local community and offers numerous volunteer opportunities for students. The university also has several programs designed to help the local community, such as the Winston-Salem State University Community Development Corporation, which works to improve the quality of life in the community.
Conclusion
Winston-Salem State University is a unique university with a rich history and a vibrant culture. From its unique traditions and athletics program, to its notable alumni and commitment to community service, WSSU has something for everyone. Whether you’re a student, alumni, or just a fan, there’s something special about WSSU that makes it stand out from other universities.
