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Who we are
At Virginia State University, we are more than just an institution of higher learning; we are a vibrant community dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.
At Virginia State University, we are proud of our heritage, inspired by our mission, and driven by our commitment to excellence. Together, we are shaping the future of education and making a difference in the lives of our students and communities.
What defines us
Virginia State University is committed to expanding access to higher education and increasing opportunities for economic mobility. As an 1890 land-grant university, we offer education in fields such as agriculture, engineering, family and consumer sciences, and military sciences, while also leading agricultural research and extending our expertise to improve the quality of life in our state, nation, and world.
Legacy of excellence: Founded in 1882, Virginia State University has a proud heritage as one of Virginia’s two land-grant institutions and the nation’s first state-supported HBCU to offer both a college program and a normal program. For over 130 years, we have been at the forefront of educational innovation, opening doors for transformative experiences and opportunities for lifelong learning.
Core values: At the core of our identity are our shared values of student-centeredness, integrity, engagement, customer service, excellence, scholarly research, global awareness, teaching, and diversity. These values guide our actions and decisions, shaping the way we educate, inspire, and empower our students and communities.
Opportunity and access: Virginia State University is committed to expanding access to higher education and increasing opportunities for economic mobility. As an 1890 land-grant university, we offer education in fields such as agriculture, engineering, family and consumer sciences, and military sciences, while also leading agricultural research and extending our expertise to improve the quality of life in our state, nation, and world.
Transformative leadership: Our dedicated faculty, staff, and administration foster a nurturing environment for student success. Through innovative teaching, mentorship, and experiential learning, we cultivate engaged learners, critical thinkers, and global citizens. At Virginia State University, we’re shaping the future of education, driven by excellence and a commitment to our heritage and mission
Our vision
Our vision is to foster sustained excellence as a preeminent public land-grant university, providing access to higher education and a transformative learning experience to produce world-class leaders and scholars for a diverse state, national, and global workforce.
Our mission
Our mission is to prepare a diverse population of men and women for success through the advancement of academic programs and services that integrate instruction, research, extension, and outreach.
This is
what we do
At Virginia State University, we are committed to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares a diverse population of students for success in an ever-changing world. Through our comprehensive academic programs and services, we strive to integrate instruction, research, extension, and outreach to meet the evolving needs of our students and communities.
Through our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation, Virginia State University remains steadfast in its mission to empower students, transform communities, and shape the future of our world.
How we fulfill our mission
Academic excellence: Our institution offers a wide range of academic programs spanning various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, family and consumer sciences, and military sciences. With a focus on excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we empower our students to become critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and innovative leaders in their respective fields.
Student-centered approach: At the heart of our mission is a commitment to the holistic development of our students. We provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop their talents, and achieve their full potential. Through personalized academic advising, mentorship opportunities, and experiential learning opportunities, we strive to meet the unique needs of each student.
Community engagement: As a public institution, we recognize the importance of engaging with our local, national, and global communities. Through service-learning initiatives, research partnerships, and outreach programs, we collaborate with stakeholders to address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. By fostering civic engagement and social responsibility, we empower our students to make a positive impact in the world.
Research and innovation: Virginia State University is dedicated to advancing knowledge and driving innovation in key areas of study. Our faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research projects that address critical issues facing society, from sustainable agriculture to cybersecurity. Through collaborative research endeavors and interdisciplinary collaborations, we seek to address complex challenges and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Diversity and inclusion: We embrace diversity in all its forms and strive to create an inclusive campus community where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. By celebrating our differences and fostering a culture of belonging, we enrich the educational experience and prepare our students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.