University Mission: Virginia Union University seeks to maximize the potential of individuals from varied academic backgrounds within the context of a challenging and nurturing academic environment. Offering students the opportunity to excel as scholars and leaders. For the realization of its mission, the University offers the Academic Empowerment Center (AEC).

Academic Empowerment Center’s Goal: The goal of the Academic Empowerment Center is to provide academic and administrative support programs and services that empower students for success and maximize their potential for continued personal growth (University Goal #7). The AEC is committed to fulfill the University’s mission and goals, consistent with the goal of the University’s Strategic Plan to increase the institution’s retention and graduation rate of student matriculation, and to lend support services to a population of students who are provisionally accepted to the institution, undeclared students, disabled students, and students who are experiencing academic decline. Virginia Union University received a commendation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SAC) April 2000 for the exceptional activities and successes achieved by the AEC. The students involved in this program have had enriched college experiences and have noticeable retention rates. It is no secret that indicators of academic achievement for minority students are generally very low. Our experience at Virginia Union University; however, supports the fact that students from at-risk populations with a desire and potential to learn can be successful with appropriate support and resources.

The AEC provides a myriad of support services designed to eradicate learning obstacles and stimulate upward mobility. The AEC utilizes computer technology to assist students with learning course material, strengthen basic skills including computer literacy, Internet usage, as well, e-mail correspondence, conduct research, and to elevate typed course work. The following outlines AEC support services:

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SUPPORT SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

The AEC assists students with making academic progress through the practice of preparing an Academic Success Plan. The Academic Success Plan helps the student to map the steps necessary for achieving their desired academic goals. Students with a disability are expected to self identify with the AEC and are required to provide documentation that describes and verifies their disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities. As a result of these laws, the AEC offers integrated educational services that provide students with an identified disability, an equal opportunity to obtain a college education. The AEC is committed to ensuring that all benefit from every program, service, and activity that is offered. A disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as, caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. Adjustments and reasonable accommodations follows:

ADJUSTMENTS AND REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS