Saving Virginia Wesleyan: Letter To UMC Leadership

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 from the university’s logo and are advancing plans after 60+ years to rename the institution/brand Batten University after a billionaire. These decisions fundamentally alter the VWU identity and its historic connection to the Wesleyan tradition without meaningful consultation or shared discernment. Everyone who has attended VWU knew of Methodist connections prior to admission/attended regardless of religious beliefs/lifestyles. Inclusion and love for each other is part of our legacy for the Commonwealth of Virginia/still active today.

Regardless of where one stands on these decisions, it is clear that leadership has caused deep concern, division, and distress amongst currently 6200+ documented individuals who love and support the university. At this moment, we are asking for prayer-for wisdom, humility, reconciliation, and renewed commitment to transparency and faithful stewardship of an institution founded in the Wesleyan tradition.

Additional background and perspectives from students, alumni and other stakeholders can be found here:

Saving Virginia Wesleyan:  https//www.savingvirginiawesleyan.org

Online Petition Opposing the Renaming:https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-renaming-of-virginia-wesleyan-university

Thank you for holding Virginia Wesleyan University, its students, faculty, alumni, trustees, and leaders in your prayers. 

Sincerely,

Katherine L.Kerr