For 160 years, Virginia Union University has been a beacon of academic achievement, leadership, and social justice.

Founded in 1865 with the mission to educate newly emancipated individuals, VUU has grown into a prestigious institution that continues to uplift and empower generations of students. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor our rich history and look boldly toward the future, embracing new challenges, fostering innovation, and preparing the next generation of leaders.

Join us as we commemorate 160 years of excellence, resilience, and Panther pride—a journey defined by unwavering commitment to education, community, and transformation. Together, we look forward to the next chapter of VUU's remarkable legacy. 

President of Virginia Union University

A MESSAGE FROM THE

Dear VUU Family, 

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I address you as we celebrate 160 years of excellence at Virginia Union University. This milestone is more than a marker of time; it is a testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment of our community, from our founders in 1865 to the students, faculty, staff, and alumni who continue to carry our mission forward. 

Virginia Union University was born out of a profound necessity—to provide education and opportunity to newly emancipated individuals in the wake of the Civil War. Over the years, VUU has grown into a premier institution of higher learning, cultivating generations of leaders who have made significant contributions across the world. Our legacy is built on a foundation of social justice, academic excellence, and community empowerment, values that remain at the core of our identity today. 

As we reflect on the past 160 years, we honor those who came before us—the visionaries who built this institution and the countless individuals who have enriched its legacy through scholarship, leadership, and service. From producing trailblazers in civil rights and politics to shaping innovators in business, education, and the arts, VUU has continually answered the call to empower change and inspire greatness. 

But this is also a moment to look to the future. We live in a rapidly evolving world, and VUU stands ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow by continuing to invest in the academic growth and personal development of our students. We are committed to expanding our academic programs, fostering cutting-edge research, and enhancing the VUU experience for all who step foot on our campus. Our goal is to ensure that the next generation of Panthers is equipped to lead, to innovate, and to make a positive impact on the world. 

As we celebrate 160 years of success, I am reminded that this legacy is not ours alone. It belongs to every student who dreams of a better future, every alumnus who carries the spirit of VUU into their professional and personal life, and every supporter who believes in the power of education to transform lives. Together, we are not just celebrating our history—we are actively shaping our future. 

Thank you for your continued support and for being a vital part of this incredible journey. I look forward to what we will achieve together in the next chapter of Virginia Union University. 

With Panther Pride, 

Dr. Hakim J. Lucas 

President & CEO 

Virginia Union University 

Celebrate with us at the following events!

MLK Community Leaders Breakfast

January 17, 2025

7:30 AM

Learn More

Founders Day: National Day of Giving

February 7, 2025

7 PM

Legacy Awards Gala

March 13, 2025

7 PM

Timeline