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Suki Deen, University Relations Associate
31 Reads Way
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 295-1164
FAX (302) 295-1137
suki.r.deen@wilmu.edu
Wilmington College to Become a University
The sign at Wilmington University’s Dover Campus is changed to reflect our new name.
September 13, 2007—New Castle, DE. Dr. Jack P. Varsalona, President of Wilmington College, announced to the Faculty Senate that Wilmington College had officially changed its designation to become a University. His announcement comes after the Board of Trustees approved the change at their September meeting. He noted that this was an historical moment in the growth of the institution.
This change was a result of a two-year study initiated by Dr. Varsalona to conduct research on the impact of such a change. During the discussion, it was noted that Wilmington College met many of the criteria to be considered a University, including multiple campuses and programs of study ranging from associate to doctoral degrees and over 11,500 students.
Dr. Thomas B. Cupples, Assistant Vice President said, “We found the response to be very positive. Becoming a University fully describes an institution of higher learning to many people and takes it to a higher level. It also really, truly reflects the mission of what we are doing.”
Dr. Varsalona told the Faculty Senate that our change to a University “will not change the culture of who we are.” Wilmington University will always be a student-centered institution with affordable tuition and quality programs at convenient locations.
The admissions policy and small class size will remain the same. The school colors and mascot will also remain the same. The athletic teams will continue to be known as the Wildcats.
Dr. Cupples said, “Over 50,000 letters were sent out to advise current students and alumni of the change. Alumni were informed of the steps they needed to take to receive an updated diploma.”
The change comes with many benefits to prospective and current students, including the alumni. The name change distinguishes Wilmington University from other liberal arts and community colleges as well as allows the University to compete on a global scale.
Dr. Varsalona thanked the faculty and staff for their efforts in the continued growth of the University that has been in existence for almost 40 years. He added that the hallmark of Wilmington University is the dedication of the faculty and staff and praised them for their commitment to our students.