[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 130 (Tuesday, July 29, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S4815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING HAMPDEN-SYDNEY COLLEGE

 Mr. KAINE. Madam President, I rise today to recognize the 
remarkable legacy and ongoing contributions of Hampden-Sydney College 
as it celebrates the 250th anniversary of its founding on November 10, 
2025.
  Founded in 1775 on the eve of the American Revolution, Hampden-Sydney 
is our Nation's 10th-oldest college and the oldest privately chartered 
college in the southern United States. Its founding mission, ``to form 
good men and good citizens,'' has remained steadfast for two and a half 
centuries, shaping generations of young men who have gone on to serve 
their communities, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the Nation with 
distinction.
  Hampden-Sydney College has also played a formative role in the 
development of other important institutions. Both the Union Theological 
Seminary and the Medical College of Virginia, now part of Virginia 
Commonwealth University, trace their roots back to Hampden-Sydney. 
These connections underscore the college's far-reaching impact on 
education, health, and public service in the Commonwealth and beyond.
  The college's liberal arts curriculum continues to foster critical 
thinking, moral character, and civil discourse. Through its nationally 
respected rhetoric program, Hampden-Sydney places a premium on clear 
communication, thoughtful debate, and lifelong learning--values more 
vital today than ever. The college also remains home to the Union-
Philanthropic Literary Society, the second-oldest college debating 
society in the United States.
  For 250 years, Hampden-Sydney has prepared students for leadership in 
fields ranging from law and medicine to education, science, religion, 
business, the arts, and the military. Its alumni include statesmen, 
scholars, public servants, and countless individuals whose quiet 
contributions have strengthened the civic and cultural fabric of our 
society.
  As it steps into the next era of its proud tradition, Hampden-Sydney 
College remains deeply committed to its founding ideals. Its pursuit of 
excellence in education, its cultivation of civic responsibility and 
character, and its unwavering defense of free expression ensure that it 
will continue to play a meaningful role in shaping the leaders of 
tomorrow.
  I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the leadership, faculty, 
alumni, and students of Hampden-Sydney College on this milestone 
anniversary. Thank you for your enduring service to the Commonwealth 
and to our country.

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