Hollins University is a private liberal arts university for women located in Roanoke, Virginia. Founded in 1842 as Valley Union Seminary, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning for women in the United States. In 1852, the seminary was renamed Hollins Institute in honor of its benefactor, Charles Lewis Cocke, and later became Hollins College in 1911. The institution achieved university status in 1998, becoming Hollins University.
Academics:
Hollins University offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well as coeducational graduate programs. The university is organized into various academic departments, with some of the most popular majors including:
1. English
2. Psychology
3. Studio Art
4. Biology
5. Business
Hollins University is known for its strong liberal arts foundation, emphasis on small class sizes, and close interaction between students and faculty. The university is recognized for its creative writing program, which has produced numerous successful authors, as well as its study abroad opportunities, and undergraduate research programs.
Student life:
Hollins University has a close-knit community, with approximately 800 undergraduate and graduate students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1. The university offers an active campus life, with more than 60 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural organizations, and recreational clubs. Hollins' athletic teams, known as the Green and Gold, compete in NCAA Division III as a member of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC).
Honor and tradition are significant aspects of the college experience at Hollins, and all students are required to adhere to the Honor Code, which emphasizes honesty, integrity, and respect in all aspects of academic and social life.
Rankings and reputation:
Hollins University is recognized for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for women. In the 2021 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges rankings, Hollins University was ranked #102 among National Liberal Arts Colleges.
Notable alumni:
Hollins University has produced successful alumni who have excelled in various fields, including literature, politics, and entertainment. Some notable alumni include:
1. Annie Dillard - Pulitzer Prize-winning author
2. Margaret Wise Brown - Children's book author, known for "Goodnight Moon" and "The Runaway Bunny"
3. Natasha Trethewey - Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate
4. Kiran Desai - Man Booker Prize-winning author
5. Sally Mann - Renowned photographer
In conclusion, Hollins University is a private liberal arts university for women with a strong commitment to academics, honor, and tradition. Its supportive environment, rigorous academic programs, and emphasis on developing strong communication and leadership skills make it an attractive option for women seeking a well-rounded education.
