Robert Lambeth, President of the Council of Independent Colleges
in Virginia (CICV), visited campus last week to discuss private college
initiatives in the Commonwealth. You might be aware that advocacy for the
purpose and value of private colleges has been an important part of my 24 years
as a college president.
Virginia Wesleyan partners with CICV on a number of collaborative efforts, some that help us to reduce costs. Mr. Lambeth and I discussed the importance of private colleges in Virginia --
they provide a smaller, more personalized educational experience, and a wide
range of graduate and professional degree programs. Many students prefer this
learning environment compared to sprawling public institutions. Currently more
than 130,000 students have chosen to enroll in Virginia private colleges.
Located in every region of the state, our institutions offer a
great variety of educational settings. There are single-sex and co-educational
institutions, historically black campuses and religious colleges – each have a
rich history and distinct character. Some are highly selective, while others
serve a broader range and appeal to the average college-bound student. Virginia
Wesleyan and Hampton University, an HBCU, are the only private colleges in our
immediate region.
I was also pleased that Virginia Wesleyan College participated
in CICV's "Private Higher Education Week" July 27 to August 1. Participants
visited at least three colleges during this year's Virginia Private College
Week, making them eligible to receive three application fee waivers to use at
any of the 24 participating colleges. I invite you to visit the Virginia Private College Week and
CICV webpage for additional information
about important initiatives and fast facts about the value of our sector.
Competition for students is intense in all sectors. I am
convinced that together we can share with interested students the importance
and value of Virginia Wesleyan College and our sector. Thank you for all you do
to promote and further the important mission and programs of Virginia Wesleyan
College and church-related American higher education. And thanks to Robert
Lambeth for his many years of advocacy on our behalf.
