Staff

For more than 60 years, the name Virginia Wesleyan  has stood for more than just an institution. It has represented a community, a shared history, and a commitment to a specific set of values. When the Board of Trustees announced the unilateral decision to change our name to "Batten University," many felt a sense of finality—a "done deal" that we were simply expected to accept. But today, we are writing to tell you something critical: The fight to Save Virginia Wesleyan is not over. In fact,...

This letter was sent to numerous leaders in the Methodist Church, locally and regionally, in the week of February 23. Dear UMC Bishops, Reverends, Delegation, Council and others, I am writing to ask for your prayers, actions, support and discernment for this institution during a difficult and uncertain moment. The VWU leadership has moved forward with significant changes over the objections of many stakeholders, current students, alumni and community members. They removed the Wesleyan cross...

The Rebranding Risk: Why a Name Change is Not Always a "Force Multiplier" In the world of strategic management, every major move should act as a "Force Multiplier"—an action that significantly increases the effectiveness and reach of an organization. However, in the history of higher education, few maneuvers are as risky as a total institutional rebrand. While the intent is often to signal a new era or honor a transformational donor, the reality is that many name changes lead to "Brand...