Virginia State University has made one of the largest jumps in the US News & World Report’s 2026 Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Rankings, marking the nation’s largest climb among all HBCUs. The announcement was made on September 24 at VSU’s Campus.
The new ranking acknowledges the university’s continued progress in academic excellence, student success, and institutional growth. The growth of VSU is a result of continuous efforts to increase enrollment, boost academic programs that equip students for success beyond college, and increase graduation and retention rates.
“The increase in our numbers reflects the progress we already knew was happening on our campus,” VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah said. “Rankings cannot be used as our benchmark because they are subject to change over time. Our primary goal is still to be the greatest environment possible for our students to develop, learn, and discover their GREATER.”
The U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate colleges and universities based on several key factors, including academic quality, graduation and retention rates, financial resources, faculty research, and peer assessments. VSU’s improvement in these categories demonstrates the university’s commitment to enhancing student outcomes and providing a high-quality, affordable education.
For many students, the ranking boost reinforces the value of their experience. “Seeing VSU rise in the rankings makes me proud to be part of a university that’s growing and being recognized for its hard work,” said RaeVaun Henderson, a graduate student at Virginia State University. “It shows that the programs, professors, and opportunities we have here are making a difference.”
Administrators at VSU stress that the climb reflects the university’s mission and values and is more than just a numerical value.
“Our goal is to guarantee student achievement, increase access to reasonably priced higher education, and stay true to our mission as a Historically Black University,” said Dr. Tia A. Minnis, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “While we are pleased with our progress, we understand that it is just the beginning.”
While the national recognition is a milestone, VSU leaders stress that the university’s greatest measure of success remains its impact on students and the communities it serves.
“As VSU reaches this milestone ranking, it feels especially important to share that perspective now,” Dr. Abdullah said. “While we are proud of the recognition, our measure is the success of our students, the strength of our outcomes, and the GREATER impact we make.”
