HOLLINS Va. (WSLS10) - It's was an emotional night in Amherst County for nearly 700 students at Sweet Briar College. The student body learned that the school will shut down after more than 100 years. Students at the liberal arts college are faced with a decision of where to continue their education.
News of Sweet Briar College closing sent shockwaves through Hollins University. Even though the two schools are rivals, students said it's sad to lose another sister school.
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"I was really sad because it was a fellow women's college like us" said Krista Knauer, a Hollins student. "What does that say about the institution of women's colleges?".
Nancy Gray, President of Hollins University says its applicant pool is growing. She said part of the reason is because academic programs at the liberal arts college are growing too. Hollins University and others colleges plan to open their doors to students affected by Sweet Briars closing.
"We along with Lynchburg College, Randolph College and Mary Baldwin are making provisions to welcome Sweet Briar students onto our campuses so they can complete their education" said Gray.
Gray said support from alumnae have helped build a strong financial foundation. Over the years, Hollins University has added co-ed graduate programs and diversified its courses. While enrollment dropped at Sweet Briar and other all-women colleges, Hollins University staff and students see liberal arts institutions as an important part of higher education and hope to see the remaining colleges and universities thrive.
"I hope to see our alumnae step up and rise to the challenge" said Knauer. "I hope that as a Hollins community and an all women's community we rise up and stand united.
Gray said the Hollins University endowment has reached a record $180 million. Their most recent fundraising campaign raised $162 million and remains the largest of any southern women's college.