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Ferrum College

Ferrum, VA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1913
Founded
Private college
Type
745
Total Students
760
Undergrad
$60M
Endowment
(2024)
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
100%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Graduation Rate
6-year
59%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Mirta Martin

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Ferrum College

Ferrum College: Rooted in service, thriving in the Blue Ridge Mountains since 1913.

Ferrum College, nestled amidst the picturesque foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in its rich history of service. This private college, with its expansive 700-acre rural campus, provides a vibrant and engaging environment for students seeking a transformative journey. From its origins focused on community upliftment to its current robust academic offerings, Ferrum stands as a testament to its enduring mission.

Established in 1913 as the "Ferrum Training School" by charitable members of the United Methodist Church, Ferrum's founding principle was to provide crucial educational opportunities for underprivileged youth in rural Southwest Virginia. What began as primary and secondary education steadily evolved, reflecting a deep commitment to adapting and growing to meet the region's needs. This strong historical foundation imbues the college with a unique character, emphasizing community, resilience, and growth.

Today, Ferrum College proudly enrolls around 800 undergraduate and graduate students, offering a diverse array of over 54 undergraduate majors and four graduate programs. Beyond academics, student life thrives, particularly through its spirited athletic programs. The Ferrum Panthers compete fiercely in NCAA Division II's Conference Carolinas, fielding 11 men's and 14 women's teams. The college's dedication to holistic development is further enhanced by its beautiful campus, recognized on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register, providing a unique blend of learning and natural beauty.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1913 by the United Methodist Church with a mission to serve rural communities.
  • ✦Features a sprawling 700-acre rural campus nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, recognized as a historic site.
  • ✦Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with over 54 undergraduate majors and four graduate programs.
  • ✦Boasts vibrant NCAA Division II athletics, competing as the "Panthers" in Conference Carolinas with 11 men's and 14 women's teams.
  • ✦Guided by the Latin motto, "Non sibi sed aliis" (Not Self, But Others), reflecting its community-focused ethos.
  • ✦Supported by a significant endowment of $60 million (as of 2024).
  • ✦Serves a close-knit community of approximately 800 undergraduate and graduate students.

Timeline

1913
Ferrum Training School officially established to serve educational needs of rural Virginia.
1914
First term of instruction begins at John Wesley Hall.
1917
Ferrum graduates its first diploma-earning student, Berta Thompson.
1926
Board of trustees votes to transition the institution into a junior college.
1940
Name changes to "Ferrum Training School – Ferrum Junior College."
1948
Renamed "Ferrum Junior College."
1971
The institution officially becomes "Ferrum College."
🏛️
113 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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