Exploring the Campus of William Peace University

William Peace University (WPU), a private college in Raleigh, North Carolina, has a rich history and a growing campus. Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, the university offers undergraduate degrees in more than 30 majors and accelerated bachelor's degrees through Peace Online for working adults. Understanding the campus layout and its facilities is essential for students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike.

A Brief History

Founded in 1857 as "Peace Institute" by the Presbyterian Synod of North Carolina, the institution that eventually became William Peace University was named after William Peace, who donated land for the campus. The Civil War delayed the opening of the school, but Peace Institute finally opened in January 1872. While it initially educated women, with the exception of some young boys, it has since transitioned to co-education.

Master Plan and Growth Strategy

William Peace University embraced immersive learning as part of its growth, and a master plan was created to align with the WPU Strategic Plan. This plan served as a conceptual guide to identify future projects and integrate them into the current campus framework. The master plan process involved discussions and meetings with various stakeholders at WPU, with an overarching theme emerging from these dialogues.

Key Locations on Campus

Main Building

The Main Building, a red brick, white-columned Greek revival structure, was built between 1859 and 1862. During the American Civil War, it was used as an army hospital by the Confederate States government.

Hermann Athletic Center

Originally built in 1963, the Hermann Athletic Center is home to the men's and women's basketball teams and the women's volleyball team. The gym was renovated in 2017, with new flooring and court design, as well as more extensive seating. The Hermann Athletic Center is located off Halifax Street behind the Main Building, with parking available in a visitor lot behind the gym.

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Pacer Performance Center (PPC)

The Pacer Performance Center, opened in the spring of 2017, is a fully-equipped athletic training center featuring a CrossFit space, a two-lane turf track, and Rogue fitness equipment.

William Peace Softball Field

The William Peace Softball Field was unveiled in the spring of 1999. It features home and away dugouts, bullpens, bleachers, and a scoreboard.

Off-Campus Athletic Facilities

Lions Park

Lions Park, located two miles from William Peace University, is home to the men's and women's tennis teams. It includes eight lighted outdoor tennis courts. To reach the tennis courts from campus, head north toward E. Franklin Street, turn left on N. Person Street, keep right on Wake Forest Road, turn right onto Glascock Street, and then turn right onto Bennett Street. The Lions Park entrance is off Bennett Street.

USA Baseball National Training Complex

The USA Baseball National Training Complex, located in Cary, NC, is home to the William Peace men's baseball team. The complex has four fields, including a stadium field that follows MLB guidelines.

WakeMed Soccer Park

WakeMed Soccer Park, also in Cary, NC, is home to the WPU men's and women's soccer teams. The facility features several fields in addition to a main stadium.

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