Provost's Message
Dear Friends and Students,
Southern Virginia University achieves its mission to mentor students to become leader-servants by providing the finest undergraduate liberal arts education available in a wholesome Latter-day Saint environment. We actively seek approximately 800 of the “right” students – ones who will take advantage of the plethora of opportunities provided by our “genius of small.” We know that the leaders of the 21st century must demonstrate more than technical prowess. They must be thoughtful observers of human nature and of the human condition. They must be gifted writers and articulate speakers. They must be adept at quantitative reasoning. They must be able to think critically, analyze complex information from a variety of perspectives, and draw from a broad foundation of knowledge. Furthermore, as they make decisions, they must act on sound moral principles.
We have designed the academic program at Southern Virginia University to prepare each student to become this type of leader-servant. Our rich general education program immerses students in the study of great human accomplishments in letters, arts, and sciences. Our carefully selected majors deepen one’s understanding of the importance of method, craft, and expertise in helping to make sense of a complex world. In our offerings, students are taught how to write more thoughtfully, express themselves more carefully, observe more closely, and listen more empathetically than ever before. All work is scrutinized closely by highly qualified faculty and often by fellow classmates.
Employers in our competitive global economy likewise seek employees who think critically, analyze information rigorously, and communicate ideas effectively. The demanding preparation provided in our participatory classrooms will hone a student’s ability to become that kind of talented and sought-after worker. If you are anxious to prepare yourself for the challenges of leadership in our dynamic 21st century in an environment where high moral standards are honored, please consider taking advantage of what Southern Virginia’s academic program uniquely has to offer.
Sincerely,
Madison U. Sowell, Ph.D.
Provost