Baddies in the Land of Troy!
Our next stop is Petersburg, Virginia where you’ll find Virginia State University–one of the Commonwealth’s biggest gems–known for its world-famous cheerleading squad (the Woo Woos!), contagious campus culture, and underrated Homecoming experience that attracts thousands to the village of Ettrick (20 miles south of Richmond) every year.
Founded in 1882 as the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, VSU is the first fully state-supported historically Black college/university in the U.S. with the mission of meeting the educational needs of students, graduating lifelong learners who are well-equipped to serve their communities, and producing world-class leaders who thrive in a diverse workforce.
With the motto ‘Greater Happens Here,’ the ever-growing University boasts 31 Baccalaureate degree programs, 17 Master’s degree programs, two Doctoral degree programs, and seven certificates within six colleges: the College of Agriculture, the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Engineering & Technology, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences, and the College of Natural & Health Sciences.
Notable VSU alumni include Wale, James Avery, Lucy McBath, Reginald Lewis, Pamela Bridgewater, Black Cobain, Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber, and more.
“We are exceedingly proud to have a Trojan represent the U.S.A. in this capacity,” said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, Phd. said in a statement after the pageant.
“Deshauna exemplifies scholarship, leadership and inner strength. She is a role model for all students.”
Where does Virginia State rank on your Virginia HBCU list and why? Tell us down below and enjoy our gallery of Virginia State stunners who shined at Homecoming on the flip.