Academics
Founded in 1866, Edward Waters University is Florida’s first independent higher learning institution as well as its first HBCU, providing students with a four-year liberal arts program rooted in ethical Christian values and civic engagement, all working toward a fundamental ideal of “Emerging Eminence.” There are five bachelor’s degree programs on offer—Biology, Business Administration, Communications, Criminal Justice, and Psychology—and students are encouraged to view their education and their future leadership roles through a global lens. To create lifelong critical thinkers and learners, the university devotes numerous resources and scholastic services to support a student’s journey. The Charles H. Pearce Institute is a five-week academic enrichment program for students who feel they need additional study before entering the college as a first-year, and The Writing Center provides personalized workshops and one-on-one instruction. The Center of Undergraduate Research promotes student research and collaboration with faculty, and the school established an honors college in 2019 to provide talented students with enhanced academic and experiential learning opportunities. The school also partakes in TRIO programs, a set of federally funded programs that aim to help first-generation, low-income students overcome barriers so that they may succeed in higher education.
Career
In a tradition dating back to the early days of the university, the student body elects a Miss Edward Waters University; they and their ten-member Royal Court of students from each class epitomize the style, etiquette, and charm of the school. Each class is also represented in the student government association by a class council, which addresses the unique concerns of its constituents. A few notable clubs and organizations: the Rotoract Club brings together students and younger members of the community to develop leadership and professional skills and perform service in the community, and the National Council of Negro Women is one of the largest and longest- running organizations of and for African American women. All nine fraternities and sororities that belong to the National Pan-Hellenic Council have active chapters at Edward Waters, promoting sisterhood, brotherhood, and community service. The popular Edward Waters Triple Threat Marching Band is in high demand for performances at high schools and battle of the bands throughout the south and east coast and has even made appearances at halftime during NFL games.
Culture
Notable Edward Waters University alumni include Richard Lewis Brown, former NFL running back Jim “Cannonball” Butler (who played at the school), and former Florida state representative Betty Holzendorf. The Office of Career Services provides a variety of services ranging from career assessment to internships, graduate school assistance, and employment. Students can take advantage of monthly workshops held throughout the week, including “Wednesday Writing” and “Teach Me Thursday,” and can find job/ internship listings regularly posted on the office’s website.
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