University of Mary Washington continues recognition in Fiske Guide to Colleges
The 2025 Fiske Guide to Colleges has again listed the University of Mary Washington as one of the “best and most interesting” schools. The guide reviews just over 300 universities and colleges in the U.S. UMW was named out of 11 Virginia higher education institutions. One factor of Fiske is taking direct quotes and stories from the students on why UMW is unique. Student quotes included, “At Mary Washington, an unusually strong sense of community characterizes everything from academics to campus life”, “There’s always something happening on campus” and “It is a really special place to learn, further your academic pursuits and be encouraged stepping into a career after your time at UMW.”
Local partnerships and internships stand out, from historic preservation rooted in Fredericksburg to international affairs and connections to the nation’s capital of Washington, D.C. Philanthropic support is noted as a boost to the undergraduate research program, scholarships and summer opportunities, including the Summer Science Institute.
The campus experience comes up in detail, both for its historic presence in Fredericksburg and for the “spate of renovations in the last few years, including a $24 million overhaul of Seacobeck Hall, a longtime dining facility that now houses the College of Education.” Athletics and campus recreation add to the overall quality of life with nationally ranked NCAA teams, club sports and a variety of intramurals.