Southern Virginia University

Southern Virginia University stands as a distinctive private liberal arts college, rooted in a rich history stretching back to 1867. What began as the Home School for Girls has evolved into a vibrant co-educational institution, defined by its motto, "Learn that Life is Service," and its commitment to a strong academic experience within a close-knit community of 967 students. Its scenic campus in Buena Vista, Virginia, is particularly notable for its Main Hall, which originally served as the historic Buena Vista Hotel—a beautiful structure now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The university's journey is one of remarkable transformation and resilience. From its early days as a for-profit seminary, it transitioned to a non-profit junior college, steadily expanding its curriculum to prepare students for both careers and transfer to four-year institutions. A significant turning point came in the mid-1990s when, facing financial challenges, a new board with strong ties to the LDS Church revitalized the institution, leading to its renaming as Southern Virginia University in 2001 and the crucial re-attainment of full regional accreditation in 2012.

Today, Southern Virginia University offers a unique educational environment where students benefit from a liberal arts education designed to encourage intellectual growth and personal development. The college's history reflects a continuous drive for academic excellence and institutional integrity, providing a supportive setting for students to learn, serve, and thrive, preparing them for lives of purpose and impact.