Virginia Union University issued the following announcement on May 25.
The Virginia Union University Board of Trustees voted, during its May 2021 meeting, to invest over $8.9 million in the suitability of the university. The investment will improve the quality of education and life for students, staff, and faculty, through actions including the creation of new degree programs and the expansion of the campus. This historically significant investment is crucial in meeting VUU’s Strategic Goal of becoming a Best-in-Class university and being recognized as a top Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
“The Board of Trustees is focused on the sustainability and continuous growth of Virginia Union University,” said Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Chairman of the VUU Bord of Trustees. “We are excited about the tremendous growth and improvements made despite the global health pandemic. VUU is committed to it’s mission and will continue to make innovative decisions that will prepare our 21st Century students for success in the workforce.”
“The investment and support from the Board of Trustees is critical in Virginia Union University’s evolution into a top-tier HBCU known for its’ quality and value,” said Dr. Hakim Lucas, President, and CEO of Virginia Union University. “This historic move toward ensuring the sustainability of Virginia Union will impact nearly every facility on campus. The COVID-19 pandemic brought upon unexpected and unprecedented challenges that our community excelled against, and this investment will support the university as we transition into post-pandemic life and beyond.”
The investment will support initiatives that VUU has already kicked off during the 2020-2021 academic year. The university plans to continue the expansion of the campus. This includes a land purchase on Admiral St, and enhancements after purchasing the former Budget Inn site in Richmond, which will be transformed into commercial, office, and residential space. The university will also continue investing in crucial areas across the campus, including enhancing teaching and learning, and integrating technology into business operations.
In this past academic year, the university introduced eight new graduate programs and three new bachelor degree programs, awarded over $7 million in research funding and $1million in research faculty grant funding. This new investment from the Board of Trustees will support Virginia Union University’s growth for future generations.
In addition to the historic vote to ensure the longevity of the university, several other significant action items were undertaken, including:
- A vote to establish the Hezekiah Walker Center for Gospel Music
- Immunization policy updates related to campus-wide Covid 19 requirements
- Tenure recognitions and staff promotions for several VUU instructors and professors
- An optimized investment strategy
Original source can be found here.
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