Hollins University is a private liberal arts university located in Roanoke, Virginia. It was founded in 1842 as Virginia’s first chartered women’s college. Hollins has a small undergraduate enrollment of around 800 students, with an average class size of 12 students. The university offers over 30 majors and minors, with programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
The university is known for its strong creative writing program, which has produced numerous acclaimed writers, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annie Dillard. Other notable programs include the business and economics program and the dance program, which offers training in both ballet and modern dance. Hollins has a diverse student body, with students from over 40 states and 20 countries. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability, with numerous green initiatives on campus and a comprehensive sustainability plan.
Hollins University offers students a rigorous and well-rounded education in a supportive and inclusive community. With its strong academic programs, talented faculty, and beautiful campus, it is a top choice for students seeking a small, personalized, and dynamic educational experience.

Hollins University
Do you want to know more about Hollins University? Let’s take a look at these 20 interesting facts about Hollins University.
- Hollins University was founded in 1842 as the first chartered women’s college in Virginia.
- The university’s original name was the Virginia Female Institute, and it was renamed Hollins in 1852 in honor of benefactor John Hollins.
- Hollins University is located on a 475-acre campus in Roanoke, Virginia, with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- The university has a small undergraduate enrollment of around 800 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1.
- Hollins offers over 30 majors and minors, including programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- The university has a strong focus on experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, research, study abroad, and community service.
- Hollins is home to the Jackson Center for Creative Writing, which hosts a number of literary events and workshops throughout the year.
- The university’s creative writing program is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country, with numerous graduates going on to become acclaimed writers.
- Hollins is also known for its strong programs in dance, theatre, and business and economics.
- The university has a diverse student body, with students from over 40 states and 20 countries.
- Hollins has a strong commitment to sustainability, with numerous green initiatives on campus, including a campus garden and a solar array.
- The university is home to the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, which features a collection of over 8,000 works of art and hosts exhibitions throughout the year.
- Hollins has a number of unique traditions, including the annual Ring Night ceremony, where seniors receive their class rings, and the Tinker Day celebration, where classes are canceled for a day of outdoor activities.
- The university has a comprehensive honors program, which provides students with a challenging and enriching academic experience.
- Hollins has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in NCAA Division III sports.
- The university’s mascot is a green and gold mare named Miss Hollins.
- Hollins has a number of student organizations and clubs, including a student government association, a literary magazine, and a dance ensemble.
- The university has a beautiful campus, with numerous historic buildings and well-manicured gardens.
- Hollins has a strong commitment to community service, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in volunteer work and service projects.
- The university has a close-knit and supportive community, with a strong emphasis on personal growth and development.
Hollins University is a highly respected liberal arts institution that offers a rich and rewarding academic experience in a supportive and inclusive community. With its strong emphasis on experiential learning, commitment to sustainability, and talented faculty, Hollins is well-positioned to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. Whether pursuing a degree in the arts, humanities, social sciences, or natural sciences, students at Hollins can expect to receive a rigorous and well-rounded education that prepares them for a lifetime of learning and achievement.