Mississippi University for Women Announces a Name Change

Nora Miller, president of the Mississippi University for Women, announced that pending approval from the state, the university will be known as Mississippi Brightwell University as of July 1.

The new name was inspired by the university’s motto: “We study for light to bless with light,” President Miller said. “Our motto epitomizes the enduring essence of a supportive, inclusive and empowered community. Our distinguished faculty – beacons of enlightenment and a wellspring of knowledge – collaborate with each of our students one-on-one.”

The Mississippi University for Women was founded in 1884 as the first state-supported college for women in the United States. Today, the university is home to 2,227 students in more than 70 majors and concentrations and has educated men for 40 years. Today, men make up 23 percent of the undergraduate student body.

“We will continue to celebrate our history as the first state-supported college for women and our continued mission of providing educational and leadership opportunities for women,” President Miller added. As evidence of this commitment, the university announced the establishment of the Women’s College at Mississippi University for Women.

The new college will offer all students, regardless of major, highly personalized and high-impact experiences that will showcase women’s excellence and leadership in the past and present while providing skills and professional experience to empower paths. Through specialized programming, research, and mentor relationships, the college will provide students with the opportunity to advance their interest in women’s leadership.