Emory & Henry University is a private university in southwestern Virginia, founded in 1836 by the Holston Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Named for Methodist Bishop John Emory and Patrick Henry, Virginia's first governor, it operates two physical campuses, in Emory and Marion, alongside online and professional programmes. Its first president, Rev. Charles Collins, and its first three faculty were graduates of Wesleyan University in Connecticut.
The university provides undergraduate, graduate and professional education rooted in a liberal arts tradition and a Christian heritage. Degree offerings span liberal arts, education, business, the arts, equine studies, athletics and civic-involvement programmes. Health sciences graduate education is delivered through a dedicated Health Sciences Campus with specialised facilities, and distance and professional instruction runs alongside campus-based teaching.
Facilities on the historic Emory campus include Kelly Library, Memorial Chapel, the McGlothlin Center for the Arts, student residences and athletic facilities. The institution has been in operation for more than 185 years and serves students across southwestern Virginia and through online delivery.
Emory & Henry states that its founding conviction is that education can transform individuals, communities and the wider world. Its stated culture pairs Christian heritage with civic engagement, intellectual growth and service, combines Appalachian roots with a broad liberal arts foundation, and emphasises preparing students for professional, civic and purposeful lives.
