During the Valentine’s Day season, The Johnsonian would like to reflect on a common love that unites students, staff, alumni, and the greater Rock Hill community: the love of Winthrop University.
For over one hundred years, Winthrop has taken in students and changed their perception of the world — offering education, housing and guidance to thousands of young adults annually. Faculty and staff have collectively dedicated one hundred and thirty years to caring for students and helping them grow into well-rounded adults, often sacrificing their own time or resources for the ability to impact and lead Winthrop’s student body.
One of the most beloved features on Winthrop’s campus is its landscaping and overall appearance. Students, alumni and tourists alike flock to Winthrop’s campus in the spring and summer in order to take photos among the cherry blossom trees and the variety of flora that Hardin Gardens boasts. The botanical diversity at the Recreational and Research Complex also attracts visitors to the university’s campus to admire the woods, aquatic greenery and blooms indigenous to the Carolinas.
The variety of academic programs that Winthrop has to offer is also a reason to feel pride and affection for the university. In an anonymous survey, students and alumni were given the opportunity to share what they love most about their experience at Winthrop. Their varied responses paint a picture of a close-knit community and top-of-the-line education.
“I love that each cohort is so close-knit and collaborative,” an anonymous education major said. “My program is one of the smallest on campus, so I feel like I’ve gained a second family!”
A freshman who has yet to declare a major shared that they “appreciate the variety of general education classes that freshmen have to take — it helps narrow down what programs students do/do not mesh well with.”
Campus involvement was also a large factor in the survey that students and alumni participated in. Multiple students admitted that they love the variety of on-campus events that happen throughout the year, and that these events help them feel connected to both the campus and each other.
“I have met so many of my friends simply by going to cultural events and Resident Life activities!” said a sophomore psychology major.
Alumni also still hold love for their alma mater, as evidenced by their survey responses.
“I am forever grateful to Winthrop for showing me my calling in life and helping me become the educator I am,” said an education major who graduated in 2019. Wren Brooke, a theatre major who graduated from 2022, is grateful for the emotional opportunities that Winthrop provided. “If I hadn’t come to Winthrop, I never would have fallen in love or met some of my best friends.” Brooke said in an interview.
Winthrop’s impact on the greater Rock Hill community is evident through the partnerships that it receives. Local businesses, such as Knowledge Perk, advertise their products using Winthrop-themed designs or names. Local hotels partner with the university to offer special rates to alumni. The university’s involvement in community events such as the Come-See-Me Festival speaks of a mutual affection between the city of Rock Hill and Winthrop University.
Winthrop University has shown unconditional love and support for all of those who walk their campus — community members, employees, or students. Since 1886, a common theme has united the past, present, and future of Winthrop University — a deep love and respect both from and for its students.
