ETTRICK, Va.
Virginia State University is reinventing itself.
The historically Black college of just under 5,000 students hopes to double its enrollment in upcoming months, diversify its largely Black student body and strengthen its image with new buildings, curriculum and staff.
The changes come as school attempts to become a destination for Southside Virginia and beyond.
“I believe in diversity. We’re not an isolated entity,” says Harold T. Green Jr., VSU’s rector, who acknowledged the school’s role in molding generations of Blacks.
The school has already taken several steps toward raising its profile as it approaches its 125th anniversary.
Over the past three years, officials have embarked on $87 million in new construction and renovations.
