Virginia State University (VSU) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every member of the community feels valued and empowered. This report outlines the anticipated future impacts of the Inclusion and belonging strategic plans on the university’s populations, workforce, and budget.

Founded on March 6, 1882, as the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, VSU has been a beacon of educational hope for over a century, serving Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Prince George, and Dinwiddie County. Throughout its history, VSU has undergone several name changes and expansions, reflecting its growth and adaptation to the evolving educational needs of its community.

Originally established to provide educational opportunities for African Americans, VSU has grown from an institution with 126 students and a $20,000 budget to a fully integrated university with nearly 4,000 students of varied identities, and extensive facilities. VSU's legacy includes a commitment to inclusion and belonging which has significantly impacted the populations it serves and the university's workforce and budget. As the regional university for Southside Virginia, VSU continues to uphold its mission and values, envisioning an exciting future that transcends its illustrious past and fosters sustained excellence in higher education.