It starts
within us.

What’s within us here has an incredible impact everywhere.

At the University of Richmond, we’re ambitious, curious, and determined. Our ambition drives us to dream big. Our curiosity inspires us to seek more. And our determination fuels us to accomplish our goals, letting no obstacle stand in our way. These are the traits that make us Spiders, and they give us the unique ability to create positive change in communities, organizations, and businesses that span the globe.

See why the traits within us are important for all that’s around us.

Boldly Ambitious

We actively pursue every goal, continuously seeking out ways to improve, expand, and evolve. It is our goal to achieve more — not just for our own gain, but for everything we can accomplish together.

Leland Melvin floats aboard the International Space Station

Astronaut's resolve inspires students to aim high

A former NASA astronaut and NFL wide receiver, alumnus Leland Melvin is motivating young people through his story of perseverance.

Microscope in Chemistry Lab

Shaping the next generation of scientists

Professor Carol Parish is diversifying the pipeline of students pursuing careers in the sciences and providing the guidance that equips them to excel.

Michael Kitimet stands beside the library he helped build

Cultivating success through access to education

Richmond student Michael Kitimet is building a library in his Kenyan hometown, equipping students and shaping futures through learning.

ProfoundlyCurious

We revel in the discovery of new knowledge and venture to ask, “What more?” With every question comes new ideas, new possibilities, and new opportunities — and we explore them all.

Human Brain Neuron System

Discovering why our brains change

Professor Kelly Lambert is forging new ground in understanding how our experiences and environment influence our brains' ability to adapt.

Bert Ashe talks to students in a classroom

Examining the realities of self-identity

Professor Bert Ashe is using black literature and the lessons of his own self-exploration to help students shape their understanding of themselves.

Maria Vennikov in Dublin, Ireland

Student's ingenuity bolsters business abroad

Through an international internship, Richmond student Maria Vennikov created an algorithm that's helping a Dublin-based company cut costs.

Tirelessly Determined

We approach every problem with perseverance, and we don’t take “no” for an answer. By carefully analyzing every side of the issue, we reveal new ways to move forward and propel lasting change.

Najwa Labban standing in Gottwald Science Center

Biosensor breakthroughs improving disease detection

Richmond student Najwa Labban is advancing the use of biosensors in detecting certain diseases, overcoming a history of the technology's limited success.

Provide a statement describing the scene in the above photos

Leveling the playing field in international sports

Law professor Andy Spalding is fighting corruption in international sports, enabling athletic achievement to triumph over unscrupulous instincts.

Confederate Statue in Richmond, Virginia

Conviction inspires monumental movements

Professor Julian Hayter is propelling the conversation on Confederate monuments, shedding light on their history and discussing their ramifications for the future.

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