William Peace University: A Historical Overview of Academics and Campus Life in Raleigh
William Peace University, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, has a rich and evolving history that dates back to its founding in 1857. Originally established as the Peace Institute, a school for women, the university has undergone numerous transformations, adapting to the changing needs of students and the demands of the modern world. This article delves into the institution's history, academic offerings, campus life, and recent efforts to reconcile with its past.
Founding and Early Years
The history of William Peace University began with a generous donation from William Peace, a Raleigh businessman and church elder, who pledged $10,000 to the Rev. Joseph M. in the 1850s. This gift served as the cornerstone for fundraising efforts to establish the Peace Institute. The institution initially offered education for both boys and girls in primary grades and for women from high school through college.
However, it's important to acknowledge a difficult aspect of William Peace's legacy: he was a slaveholder. According to a university report, Peace enslaved 51 people as of the 1860 Census. This revelation has prompted the university to confront its past and address the historical implications of its namesake's involvement in slavery.
Delays caused by the Civil War and Reconstruction postponed the opening of the Peace Institute. During the Civil War, the Main Building served as a Confederate hospital.
Transition and Growth
In recent years, William Peace University has experienced significant changes. Recognizing the need to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to transition the institution to coeducational status and rename it William Peace University.
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Academics at William Peace University
WPU offers more than 30 undergraduate degrees, including new programs such as esports and gaming administration, plus a hybrid program for working adults. The university prides itself on providing a personalized learning environment with small class sizes and dedicated professors. Nearly 100% of undergraduate students complete an internship while enrolled. Undergraduate students are also given the opportunity to do research, with William Peace sending students to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) every year and to other events such as DECA.
History and American Studies
For students passionate about the past, William Peace University offers a comprehensive History (and American Studies) major. This program equips students with analytical and communication skills, preparing them for a variety of career paths. The history major requires only 36 credit hours, allowing students to pursue a double major. History students have landed internships and jobs in museum studies, law, real estate, non-profits, and more. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees in museum studies, law, and various other disciplines. A history minor is also available for students who want to complement their major with a historical perspective.
Campus Life
William Peace University provides a vibrant campus life with a variety of resources and activities for students. The university has resource groups, and a campus emergency alert system.
Confronting the Past
William Peace University has taken steps to address its historical ties to slavery. The university removed a statue of Peace from the center of campus. A task force was created to conduct research in key areas and identify parts of Peace's history that are not consistent with the university's current values as an institution.
The Lotus, the university's official yearbook, contains images and text that are objectionable, including racially stereotypical content and racial slurs.
Read also: Internships at the US Institute of Peace
Today, of the total enrollment of 742, white students make up 51 percent, Black students 27 percent and Hispanics 12 percent.
Affordability and Admissions
William Peace University's tuition is $34,176. Room and board costs $12,606. The average SAT composite is 1042. The application fee is $50.
Outcomes
Within one year of Commencement, 96% of WPU graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school.
Read also: Benefits of Peace Corps Internships
tags: #Peace #University #Raleigh #history #academics #campus
