Becoming Batten University FAQs
Have questions about the name change or what it represents?
Here's the story behind the name change and what it stands for.
Why is the University changing its name?
The decision to adopt the Batten University name is both a recognition of our history and a bold step toward the future. While the Virginia Wesleyan name will always be honored, the Batten name reflects the unmatched impact of the Batten family's generosity. For a small, private institution without state funding or a century-old endowment, their support has been truly transformational.
The Batten name also elevates our visibility and reputation. It is distinctive and free of confusion often associated with "Wesleyan," and it aligns us with a philanthropic family whose leadership and values are widely respected. This clarity strengthens our standing in national and international markets, helping us attract students, donors, and partners.
Finally, the timing of the name change underscores our momentum. As we integrate Sentara College of Health Sciences, welcome the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art to our campus, and expand our presence in Chesapeake and Tokyo, the Batten name marks a new chapter in our evolution. Alumni remain proud graduates of Virginia Wesleyan while gaining the prestige of being connected to a University of rising recognition and distinction.
What happens to the "Virginia Wesleyan" name and legacy?
The legacy of Virginia Wesleyan will continue to be honored through our archives, traditions, and celebrations. We are still located on Wesleyan Drive.
We are working to preserve the spirit of VWU in many visible and meaningful ways across campus. Please plan to join us on campus for Homecoming & Family Weekend, October 3-5, for a special tribute to VWU.
What was the role of the United Methodist Church in this decision?
Sue Haupert-Johnson, Bishop of the Virginia Annual Conference, serves on our Board of Trustees and was consulted about this decision prior to the announcement. The Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church released this statement of support on August 21, 2025, only one day after the announcement.
Our values and foundation remain unchanged. Furthermore, many institutions of higher learning in Virginia are related to the Methodist Church without a direct naming affiliation—Randolph-Macon College and Shenandoah University are good examples.
Does this change mean the university is no longer historically affiliated with the United Methodist tradition?
No. Our values and foundational relationships remain unchanged. While the name is new, our mission, ethos, and commitment to character, service, and faith-based inquiry remain deeply rooted in the United Methodist tradition.
Why name the university after a family instead of a place or ideal?
The Batten name has long been associated with visionary philanthropy, educational excellence, environmental stewardship, and public service in Virginia and beyond. Naming the university after a family that has shaped its past, present, and future is a way of rooting the institution in legacy, generosity, and gratitude. Just as names like Stanford, Duke, and Vanderbilt became synonymous with innovation and purpose through the transformative power of individual vision, Batten University will embody strength for the journey ahead—anchoring tradition while charting a bold course for the future.
How does Jane Batten feel about the name change?
Jane Batten is passionate about education and the environment. She is much more focused on the results of her philanthropy than she is with recognition.
However, Jane did realize the benefits to renaming the University. She is a strong proponent of the University to continue to draw on its enduring Methodist heritage of social responsibility, its focus on distinctive teaching and community service, and graduating students who take care of our planet and the people living on it.
And, finally, Jane believes that we have built a strong foundation for the University to become an even better version of itself. Watch her video.
Who made the decision?
Our Board of Trustees voted unanimously to honor the Batten legacy by renaming the University to reflect both our future and the values that have propelled us forward.
When is the change effective?
We will become Batten University on July 1, 2026.
What about our diplomas?
After July 1, 2026, all diplomas will reflect the Batten University name. Diplomas issued under the name Virginia Wesleyan College or Virginia Wesleyan University will always remain valid and respected. Graduates of Virginia Wesleyan who would like a diploma that displays the new name can request one after July 1, 2026.
How will this affect the name of our athletic teams?
The Batten University campus community and athletic teams will still be known as the Marlins, and our mascot will still be Bob Marlin.
How do alumni remain connected to the University?
Keeping our alumni connected during this important transition is a priority. Above all, we want every graduate to know that their story does not change—they are, and always will be, proud graduates of Virginia Wesleyan. The Virginia Wesleyan name will always be honored, and our history will remain central to the identity of Batten University.
At the same time, we want alumni to share in the excitement of what this new chapter brings. By adopting the Batten name, our University gains recognition, distinction, and momentum at a national and international level. That added visibility strengthens the value of every graduate's degree. Alumni can take pride in knowing that their alma mater's reputation is rising and that they are forever part of that story.