Virginia State University has been named by online blog HBCU Digest as the nation’s top historically Black college or university of the year.
The university, located in Ettrick near Petersburg, was chosen by a panel of previous HBCU award winners, presidents and chancellors and members of the media that cover HBCUs.
“Virginia State University demonstrated excellence across virtually all areas of the academic enterprise,” said Jarrett Carter, founding editor of HBCU Digest. “The institution showcased stability in leadership, productivity in research and outreach in its programs of strength — agriculture, education and business.”
VSU President Makola Abdullah credited students and staff past and present for the honor.
“It’s because of the incredible hard work and commitment of our wonderful faculty and staff who give of their time to our students,” Abdullah said. “It’s our alumni who set a high standard for our students to follow. It’s the dedication of our board of visitors for all that they do for the university. I am proud to be the 14th president of Virginia State University.”
Carter added that VSU was a top performer within the public higher education sector in attracting and retaining first-time college students, and it was among the most competitive institutions in excellence among its men’s and women’s athletic programs.
“Virginia State University was a model of success for all institutions, historically Black or otherwise, during the last academic year and it was an honor to recognize the achievements of their executives, students, faculty and alumni at our annual ceremony,” he said.