Letters to the Editor: Shock and Sadness

Preserve the name, legacy of Virginia Wesleyan


By Letters to the Editor


PUBLISHED: August 26, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET
Batten University


Re “Virginia Wesleyan to change name” 

As a proud alumnus of Virginia Wesleyan University, Class of 1980, I was shocked and saddened to learn of the proposed name change to Batten University, effective on July 1.
While I deeply appreciate the Batten family’s generous contributions, I believe the name of a respected academic institution should not be transactional. Naming rights may suit sports or entertainment, but they feel misplaced in higher education — especially at a university built on Methodist tradition and purpose.
The Batten name is already well honored on campus through several named buildings and programs. These tributes thoughtfully recognize their support without altering the university’s identity.
With sincere respect to Batten, I believe there is great dignity in declining a renaming gift in order to preserve institutional legacy.

Equally troubling is the lack of transparency surrounding this decision. A change of this scale — impacting the university’s name and identity — should include input from alumni, students, faculty and the broader community. Instead, it appears to have been decided behind closed doors.
I can’t help but think of Lambuth Clarke, the college’s second president who served from 1966 to 1992. He remarkably knew every student by name and helped shape VWU’s spirit and direction. I believe he would oppose this change, standing for heritage over rebranding.
Though I lack the financial means to influence this decision, I offer my voice and deep concern. I respectfully urge the administration to preserve the name and legacy of Virginia Wesleyan University.


Terry L. Siviter, Virginia Beach


VWC  Class of 1980