Virginia Union University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Virginia Union University (VUU), located in Richmond, Virginia, boasts a rich history and a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. From civil rights advocacy to economics, education, and sports, VUU graduates have left an indelible mark on society. This article explores the history of the university, its notable alumni, and the enduring legacy of this historically Black institution.
Historical Overview
The origins of Virginia Union University can be traced back to the National Theological Institute, which established separate branches in Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia, in 1867. The Richmond branch expanded its mission to offer courses and programs at college, high school, and preparatory levels for both men and women, marking the beginning of Virginia Union University. The school in Washington, D.C., became Wayland Seminary, named after Francis Wayland, a former president of Brown University and a prominent figure in the anti-slavery movement. George Mellen Prentiss King served as the first and only president of Wayland Seminary for thirty years (1867-1897). Colver Institute, another predecessor to VUU, was housed in a building known as Lumpkin's Jail, a former "slave jail" owned by Mary Ann Lumpkin, the African-American widow of the deceased white owner, beginning in 1867. In 1932, Hartshorn Memorial College, a women's college established in Richmond in 1883, merged with Virginia Union University.
Virginia Union University's Theological training program is known as The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology. The university competes in the NCAA Division II in the Eastern Division of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Its basketball and volleyball teams play in Barco-Stevens Hall, originally built as the Belgian Building for the 1939 New York World's Fair. This unique building, featuring stone reliefs depicting the Belgian Congo, was awarded to the university in 1941 and moved to its current location in 1943.
Virginia Union University is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.
Notable Alumni
Virginia Union University has produced a diverse array of accomplished individuals. Here are some notable alumni who have excelled in their respective fields:
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- James Henry Harris: An early American civil rights advocate.
- Bessye J. Bearden: Educator and activist.
- Roslyn M. Brock: Chair of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
- Homer S. Brown: Judge and politician.
- Emmett C. Burns, Jr.: Politician.
- Anderson J. Franklin: Economist; chair, Economics Dept. Member of the Black Cabinet under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- Lyman T. Johnson: Civil Rights Activist who challenged segregation at the University of Kentucky.
- Leontine T. Kelly: First African-American woman to be elected bishop of the United Methodist Church.
- Henry L. Marsh: Politician and civil rights attorney.
- Bai T. Moore: Liberian writer and politician.
- Wendell H. Russell, Sr.: Physician and civil rights activist.
- James R. Sample: Bishop of the Episcopal Church.
- Frank S. Royal: Physician and civil rights activist.
- Clarence L. Townes: Politician.
- Nathaniel A. Horne: Stage performer and theatre person.
- Herbert Scott: Football player for the Dallas Cowboys.
- Charles Sherrod: Civil rights activist.
Alumni in Athletics
Virginia Union University has a strong athletic tradition, and several of its alumni have gone on to have successful careers in professional sports. Some notable VUU athletes include:
- Charles Oakley: A prominent NBA player.
- Ben Wallace: Another successful NBA player.
- Larry Holmes: A famous boxer.
These athletes have brought recognition to Virginia Union University through their achievements in professional sports.
Contributions to Civil Rights and Social Justice
Virginia Union University has a long history of involvement in the civil rights movement. The presence of Colver Institute in the former Lumpkin’s Jail symbolized a transformation from a site of oppression to a place of education and empowerment. Many alumni have been at the forefront of the fight for civil rights and social justice, including:
- James Henry Harris: A dedicated advocate for equal rights.
- Lyman T. Johnson: Who challenged segregation at the University of Kentucky.
- Henry L. Marsh: A civil rights attorney and politician.
- Wendell H. Russell, Sr.: A physician and civil rights activist.
- Frank S. Royal: A physician and civil rights activist.
- Charles Sherrod: A committed civil rights activist.
These individuals have worked tirelessly to advance the cause of equality and justice for all.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Virginia Union University alumni have also made significant contributions in academia and various professions. Some notable examples include:
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- Anderson J. Franklin: An economist and member of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Black Cabinet.
- Leontine T. Kelly: The first African-American woman to be elected bishop of the United Methodist Church.
- Roslyn M. Brock: The chair of the NAACP.
- Bai T. Moore: A Liberian writer and politician.
These alumni have excelled in their fields and have made a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
Barco-Stevens Hall: A Unique Landmark
Barco-Stevens Hall, where Virginia Union's basketball and volleyball teams compete, is a unique landmark with an interesting history. Originally built as the Belgian Building for the 1939 New York World's Fair, it features stone reliefs depicting the Belgian Congo. The building was awarded to the university in 1941 and moved to its present location in 1943. In 2005, NCAA News designated Barco-Stevens Hall as one of thirteen "unique" facilities, highlighting its architectural and historical significance.
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology
Virginia Union University's commitment to theological training is exemplified by The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology. This program prepares students for ministry and leadership roles in the church and community. The school is named after Samuel DeWitt Proctor, a prominent theologian and civil rights leader.
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