Virginia State University

ABOUT Building a Better World Since 1882 Virginia State University, founded in 1882, is one of Virginia's two land-grant institutions, and is located 20 minutes south of Richmond in the village of Ettrick. With a current student population of approximately 4,600, the University sits atop a rolling landscape overlooking the Appomattox River with expansive views of Petersburg. Our 231-acre campus boasts 11 residence halls, 18 academic buildings and a 412-acre agriculture research facility. OUR MISSION Virginia State University, a public, comprehensive 1890 Land Grant institution and historically black college/university, is committed to the preparation of a diverse population of men and women through the advancement of academic programs and services that integrate instruction, research, extension, and outreach. The University endeavors to meet the educational needs of students, graduating lifelong learners who are well equipped to serve their communities as informed citizens, globally competitive leaders, and highly effective, ethical professionals. OUR VALUES - Student Centered – Promoting the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of students in all facets of University life. Integrity – Displaying the highest degree of ethical commitment in the pursuit of knowledge. - Engagement – Developing civically engaged citizens who value all persons and demonstrate the desire to positively impact their immediate surroundings, nation, and world. - Customer Service – Creating an atmosphere of respect, collegiality, and responsiveness to provide excellent service to our internal and external constituents. - Excellence – Utilizing a balanced approach to create a high expectation of achievement, awareness, and intellectual development among our students, faculty, and staff. - Scholarly Research – Conducting scholarly activity is at the forefront of our disciplines and applying translational discoveries and intellectual pursuits to benefit the community. - Global – Preparing globally aware citizens that respect and appreciate cultural differences of all people through service and the dissemination of knowledge to the world. - Teaching – Providing learning environments and activities consistent with best educational practices to create a framework where scholarship is intentional, transformational, and deepens understanding in the preparation of future leaders. - Diversity – Fostering a community that identifies, values, and respects differences of all people by creating a positive experience for students, faculty, staff, and the community. HISTORY Virginia State University was founded on March 6, 1882, when the legislature passed a bill to charter the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute. The bill was sponsored by Delegate Alfred W. Harris, a Black attorney whose offices were in Petersburg, but lived in and represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly.