College Profile: Mary Baldwin University

I recently had the chance to visit Mary Baldwin University (MBU), nestled in the charming city of Staunton, Virginia. This beautiful little school offers a rich tapestry of history and traditions, along with a vibrant student community. I was impressed by the array of nice restaurants, cute shops, and fabulous coffee shops, where students went to gather. 

History:

Founded in 1842 as the Augusta Female Seminary by Rufus W. Bailey, the institution was later renamed in honor of one of its early students and leaders, Mary Julia Baldwin. She became the principal in 1863 and guided the school through the Civil War, ensuring its survival during tumultuous times. Over the years, MBU has evolved from a seminary to a four-year college in 1923, and eventually to a university in 2016, reflecting its expanding academic offerings and commitment to growth. 

Traditions:

• Apple Day: Every autumn, the MBU community comes together to glean apples at a local orchard. In recent years, these apples have been donated to area food pantries, emphasizing the university's commitment to service. 

• Founders Day: Celebrated each October since 1898, this event honors the university's founders, Mary Julia Baldwin and Rufus William Bailey, reflecting on their legacy and the institution's journey. 

• Kwanzaa Celebration: For over 25 years, MBU has hosted an annual Kwanzaa event, celebrating African American culture and fostering inclusivity. Before the pandemic, attendance often exceeded 400 participants, making it one of the university's most significant cultural events. 

  
  

Student Body:

• Enrollment: As of the 2024-25 academic year, the university enrolls 1,773 students across various programs, including residential undergraduates, online learners, and graduate students. 

• Diversity: More than 50% of on-campus undergraduate students are students of color, and 40% are first-generation college students, reflecting MBU's commitment to accessibility and representation. 

• Financial Support: A significant portion of the undergraduate residential students are Pell-eligible, highlighting the university's dedication to supporting students from various economic backgrounds. 

  
  

Unique Programs and Opportunities:

• Shakespeare and Performance Graduate Program: Established in 2001, this unique program is closely connected with Staunton's American Shakespeare Center, providing students with unparalleled opportunities in classical theater. I went to one of these performances and it was outstanding!

• Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership (VWIL): Founded in 1995, VWIL is the nation's only all-female cadet corps, offering leadership training and military education within a liberal arts framework. 

• Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences: Opened in 2014, this college addresses regional healthcare needs by offering degrees in fields like physician assistant studies, physical and occupational therapy, nursing, and healthcare administration, boasting nearly 100% pass and placement rates. 

  
  

Attending Mary Baldwin University means becoming part of a close-knit community in a quaint environment. The students seem happy and highly motivated for success. If you are interested in a college environment like this, I encourage you to take a tour in person, and visit https://marybaldwin.edu/.