Hollins University
Encyclopedia : H : HO : HOL : Hollins University
Hollins University is a four-year institution of higher education, a private university located on a beautiful 475-acre campus in Roanoke, Virginia. Founded in 1842 as Valley Union Seminary, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education for women in the United States.
Hollins as has since evolved into a full university with over 1000 enrolled undergraduate and graduate students. As Virginia's first chartered women's college, all undergraduate programs are female-only. Men are welcome in the graduate level programs. Known for its writing program, Hollins has turned out more Pulitzer Prize-winning authors per capita than any other school in the nation including Annie Dillard, author of Pilgrim at Tinker Creek.
History
Initially established in 1842 as Valley Union Seminary, a coeducational college, Hollins became an institution for women in 1852. Three years later, it was renamed Hollins in recognition of benefactors John and Ann Halsey Hollins who donated generously to the school. Hollins Institute became Hollins College in 1911 and Hollins University in 1998. Hollins University has offered graduate programs since 1958.
Charles Lewis Cocke is the most recognizable force behind Hollins. The young mathematics professor from Richmond wrote at the age of 19 that he wished to dedicate himself to the "higher education of women in the South." Within a few years Cocke was principal of the institute which would become Hollins College. The motivating force behind the first women's college in Virginia and one of the first in the nation, Charles Lewis Cocke is properly known as the founder of Hollins. During an era when the education of women was thought to be a futile, even possibly dangerous business, Cocke wrote in 1857: "The plan and policy of this school recognizes the principle that in the present state of society in our country young women require the same thorough and rigid training as that afforded to young men."
Hollins was the first college in Virginia to name a woman president, Matty Cocke in 1901. It was home to the first exhibition gallery in the Roanoke region in 1948. One of the first writers in residence programs in America was established at Hollins in 1959. Hollins was home to the first graduate program focusing on the writing and study of children’s literature established in 1993.
Hollins University Quadrangle is on the Virginia Registar of Historical Places.
Academics
Hollins offers small classes with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio in a variety of majors, the most popular being creative writing (in which undergrads take classes and workshops with graduate student writers), communications, and psychology. There are no teacher's assistants at Hollins. Currently Hollins offers graduate programs in creative writing (M.F.A.), liberal studies, children’s literature, teaching, and screenwriting and film studies.The Fiske Guide to Getting Into the Right College describes Hollins as one of the “top women’s colleges in the nation,” and one of 15 “small colleges and universities strong in art and design.” Hollins was named one of “America’s 25 hot schools” in the 2005 Kaplan/Newsweek How to Get Into College Guide. Hollins received an academic rating of four out of a possible four stars in the 2005 edition of The Princeton Review’s The Best 357 Colleges.
Curriculum
A liberal arts school, Hollins uses their own Education through Skills and Perspective (ESP) general education requirement program. Rather than focusing on the usual math, science, English, history booklist of required courses, Hollins requires each student take a variety of classes to teach them skills (Writing, Oral Communication, Applied Quantitative Reasoning, Applied Research Techniques) and perspectives (Aesthetic Analysis, Creative Expression, Ancient and/or Medieval Worlds, Modern and/or Contemporary Worlds, Social and Cultural Diversities, Scientific Inquiry, Global Systems and Languages). These requirements can be filled in as little as 8 courses, but aim to help the student explore other fields of study while rounding out their basic understanding of the world around us.Hollins offers courses in the fields of Art, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Classical Studies, Communication Studies, Computational Sciences, Computer Science, Dance, Economics, Education, English & Creative Writing, Environmental Studies, Film & Photography, French, German, History, Interdisciplinary, International Studies, Mathematics & Statistics, Music, Philosophy, Physical Education, Physics, Political Science, Pre-Law, Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, Psychology, Religious Studies, Sociology, Spanish, Theatre, and Women's Studies.
Study abroad program
The Hollins study abroad program began in 1953, making it one of the first colleges in the nation to have such a program. 40% of Hollins students study abroad. Hollins students can study in Argentina, Cuba, Ghana, Ireland, Italy and Greece, Japan, Mexico, Spain, London, and Paris. Non-Hollins students are free to apply to the Hollins Abroad London and Paris programs.Writing program
Hollins is famed for its writing program, having graduated writers such as Annie Dillard, Lee Smith and Margaret Wise Brown. The campus has two literary magazines, Cargoes, which has won national awards for its content, and the more alternative publication The Album. R.H.W. Dillard, Cathryn Hankla, and Wayne Johnston are among the writers who teach at Hollins.The creative writing program has produced “more published writers than any other college its size in the United States” according to the Barron's Best Buy Guide.
January term
In January, students do not return to Hollins for their second semester, but instead take innovative classes, research, independent study, internships, or study abroad during that month. The 4-1-4 calendar was one of the first such short terms in the nation, extablished in 1968. It's a frequent opportunity for students exhausted from a semester at school to relax and enjoy their time at Hollins and make new friends.Sports programs
Hollins is also well known for their riding program, being named a Kaplan "Hot School" for riding in 2004/2005. Recently, their riding team earned a berth in the IHSA Nationals for the eighth straight year (14th time overall). The team has previously won two national championships. The nation's first women’s intramural sports team was established at Hollins in 1917.
Housing
Most first-years live in Tinker and Randolph. Sophomores generally live in West, and juniors and seniors live in East, Main, or the university apartments across the street from campus. Almost all undergraduates live in university housing across the street from campus.Specialty housing
Hollins does not have sororities, instead undergrads can choose to live on "Specialty Housing." Each House, or Hall, with this designation operates as an independent community within Hollins and has competitive admission.- North East Fine Arts, commonly called NEFA, is the oldest of the specialty houses. NEFA boasts a population of creative students and is famous among the student population for its raucous themed parties, frequently featuring streakers.
- The Spanish House is situated next door to NEFA in East and is for students studying Spanish.
- The French House is one of the "Hill Houses" and houses students studying French.
- Carvin House is another "Hill House", housing international students and students interested in international affairs.
- Sandusky House' is the last "Hill Houses." Sandusky is the "service house" where all members are required to do a certain amount of community service to retain their rooms.
- The 'H.O.P. Hall houses undergrads interested in the outdoors and related activities. H.O.P. stands for Hollins Outdoor Program. Most of the students housed on this hall are also involved in the Student-Life sponsored Hollins Outdoor Program.[link]
- The newly-formed Community Garden Hall is directly next to the H.O.P. Hall and works to create a garden for the Hollins community.
- Otaku is for women interested in Science Fiction, Anime, and Fantasy.
Student body
Hollins has about 800 undergraduate students. About 89% are white. In the past, Hollins has had a reputation for educating white, upper-class women. But the student population is becoming less and less homogenous, with more middle-class students and minorities. The LBGTTQA population on campus is growing and becoming more active on campus. OUTloud, the Gay-Straight alliance on campus, is one of the most active and popular clubs around. The riding team is another prominent student population. Students are politically moderate to liberal, though there is a strong conservative voice on campus.
Clubs and activities
- AIDS Awareness Coalition helps to raise awareness and affect change both on campus and in the greater Roanoke area about the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
- The Album, a campus literary journal published every semester, provides an alternative outlet for both traditional and experimental literary works.
- Alpha Psi Omega is the campus dramatic organization, featuring actors, writers, and directors. The week of "pledging" the organization is marked by new entrants walking around in wacky outfits. When asked why they are dressed as such by older students, the have to loudly proclaim their allegiance to "Alpha Psi Omega, the greatest fraternity slash sorority slash ambiguity in the world. Huzzah!"
- Arts Association a weekly gathering of painters, writers, photographers, actors, printmakers, and the like, interested in sharing their work and contributing to the Hollins art scene.
- Bell, Book, and Candle is open to anyone who is interested learning about, educating others, or participating in the different branches and aspects of Pagan spirituality.
- Black Student Alliance (BSA) is dedicated to providing an awareness of the African American culture in Hollins and Roanoke through programs and service. The alliance is an organization that helps to advance diversity, creativity, self-expression, unity, independence and self confidence. This organization is open to all women devoted to sharing and learning our culture.
- Cargoes is the annual Hollins literary magazine of student work and Nancy Thorp Memorial Poetry Contest winners. In July 2005, Cargoes was awarded the Undergraduate Literary Prize for content by the Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP).
- Chapel Music Students are invited to prepare musical offerings for weekly chapel services, Sundays at 7:30 p.m. Student-led vocal and instrumental music enhance each service.
- Circle K is a branch of the Kiwanis organization, this community service club not only promotes good works but has opportunities for scholarships.
- Colleges Against Cancer (C.A.C.) for those who are concerned about the fight against cancer and want to help.
- Foundation 42 is for sci-fi, fantasy, or horror enthusiasts. Allows members to explore their favorite aspects of the genre.
- French Club open to anyone who is interested in French language, culture, food, and the francophone world. Speaking French is not a requirement to participate or join.
- Global Interest Association (GIA) To cultivate and promote an understanding and appreciation of the contributions, values, views and traditions of diverse cultures from around the world. Membership is open to all members of the Hollins community.
- Grapheon arranges programs of literary interest to the community, such as readings, teas, and socials.
- Habitat for Humanity provides Hollins students with opportunities to serve others through the international Habitat for Humanity organization by helping to build affordable housing for low-income families. Hollins H4H was started in 1989 by a Hollins student and since then has funded/sponsored one house and has sent builder teams to numerous others over the years -- every year. Hollins H4H works closely with the local affiliate, Habitat for Humanity in the Roanoke Valley.
- Hollins Christian Fellowship provides fellowship with other Christians of every denomination at weekly meetings where local pastors and students lead discussion and Bible studies. Open to all Christians and anyone who is seeking.
- Hollins Columns, the student newspaper, serves as a source of communication to the Hollins community.
- Hollins Outdoor Program (HOP) provides opportunities for the college community to go canoeing, camping, biking, rafting, cross-country and downhill skiing, hiking, and rock climbing. Instruction for the indoor climbing wall is also offered. Skills training in adventure education is available to student instructors who help lead weekend trips.
- Hollins Repertory Dance Company offers the opportunity for creative dance study, increased technical ability, composition, and performance by producing two major dance productions each year.
- Hollins University Democrats promote an awareness of the political system, particularly as it relates to the Democratic Party, its philosophies, issues, and activities. They sponsor lectures, political forums, voter registration, and debates.
- Hollins University Television (HUTV) is Hollins' student-run closed-circuit television station.
- Martial Arts Club promotes the martial arts and self defense among the student community.
- Model UN is a club and class that explores how the UN works and current global issues through debate and conferences.
- OUTloud is for the promotion of the equality of all people and to foster an awareness of the need for equal rights legislation. Members of this organization seek to work collaboratively both in and out of the Hollins community, educating and increasing awareness about sexual orientation. OUTloud will provide a confidential forum for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) concerns in an open and positive environment. OUTloud will educate and increase awareness about motivations both for and against the implementation of laws to achieve and secure equal rights for individuals based on their sexual orientation.
- The Quadrangle is the alternative, underground campus newspaper. It is dedicated to "filling in the margins and speaking of what other venues do not" and publishing views from all contributors.[link]
- Spanish Club is open to anyone interested in enjoying Spanish/Hispanic food, music, movies, and more.
- Spinster, the annual yearbook, preserves the memories and events of Hollins students.
- Spiritual and Religious Life Association provides activities and opportunities that nurture spiritual growth, education, and service such as informal programs relating world, personal, and intellectual issues to spiritual life; Sunday evening worship in the chapel; and annual community service projects such as White Gift Offering, Golden Rule Dinner, and Thanksgiving Food collection. SRLA also provides opportunities for students to gather for fellowship with each other and with students from other colleges.
- Student Virginia Education Association develops an understanding of the teaching profession, provides for a unified voice in matters affecting the teaching profession, influence the conditions under which prospective educators are prepared, and advances the interest and welfare of students preparing for careers in education.
- Students for Environmental Action (S.E.A.) For those interested in the promotion of environmental issues, specifically reducing and recycling. sea@hollins.edu
- Students Helping Achieve Rewarding Experiences (SHARE) coordinates students who wish to serve as volunteers in the Roanoke area and internationally and to gain a deeper self-understanding through service to others. Assists with volunteer placements in the areas of: youth, elderly, homeless, crisis intervention, hospital assistance, and school systems/tutoring. Opportunities are also available at museums, Mill Mountain Theatre, Mill Mountain Zoo, and other quality-of-life organizations. SHARE also offers qualified students the opportunity to participate in a mini Peace Corps project in Jamaica during Short Term and Spring Break.
- The Hollins United Gospel Singers (T.H.U.G.S.) The purpose of The Hollins United Gospel Singers is to minister to the Hollins community and the Roanoke Valley. The Gospel choir is open to all students, faculty, staff and administration.
- University Republicans promote an awareness of the political system, particularly as it relates to the Republican Party, its philosophies, issues, and activities. They sponsor lectures, political forums, voter registration, and debates.
- Voice is to promote awareness, create respect, and cultivate responsibility for issues concerning consumerism, social justice, human rights, and the environment. The members of Voice will strive to meet these goals by using all forms of creative expression including the following: publishing a zine, performing social theater, leading discussion groups, attending protests, creating a web site, participating in other events regarding pertinent issues, as well as working in conjunction with other Hollins organizations.
- WA2 (Women Who Appreciate Anime) promotes the viewing and appreciation of Japanese animation.
Alumni
- Madison Smartt Bell, author of Ten Indians, M.A. 1981
- Margaret Wise Brown, author of Goodnight Moon, 1932
- Mary Ashworth, Pulitzer-Prize winning historian, 1924
- George Butler, documentary filmmaker and writer, 1968
- Sally Mann, photographer, 1974
- Kiran DeSai, poet, 1994
- Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-Prize winning writer, 1969
- Dorothy Dix, American journalist, 1882
- Frances Driscoll, American poet, 1972
- Anne Compton, ABC White House correspondent
- Cathryn Hankla, American poet, 1982
- Jill McCorkle, author, 1981
- Lee Smith, author, 1969
- Henry S. Taylor, Pulitzer-Prize winning poet, 1966
- Natasha Trethewey, American poet, 1991
- Ruth Hale, feminist and founder of the Lucy Stone league
- Charlotte Fox, First woman to climb Mt. Everest
External links
From Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Original article here. Support Wikipedia by contributing or donating.
All text is available under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License See Wikipedia Copyrights for details.