Only a few years in the past, Edward Waters School, a Jacksonville, FL., HBCU, was treading water. To these exterior of Duval County, it was largely unknown. Even throughout the county, EWC was hardly ever the primary alternative for college kids looking for a top quality training.
However now, as the college prepares to rejoice its a hundred and sixtieth anniversary, the establishment based by the African Methodist Episcopal Church has discovered its stride.
Daring Management: The Rise of President A. Zachary Faison Jr.
When the college chosen its new president, some thought-about it a bet. At simply 37 years previous, Dr. A. Zachary Faison Jr. was younger to guide such a historic establishment. He turned president in July 2018 after a unanimous vote by the Board of Trustees.
Faison was the youngest serving HBCU president or chancellor within the nation on the time.
A Imaginative and prescient for Transformation
Earlier than coming to Edward Waters, Faison had served in senior management roles at a number of HBCUs. He arrived with a transparent strategic imaginative and prescient—and delivered it with precision.
Underneath his management, Edward Waters has reworked. The varsity has grown from a quiet, tuition-dependent liberal arts school to a rising college with nationwide recognition. Enrollment has surged. New educational applications have launched. Infrastructure has expanded.
Elevating Edward Waters Via Athletics
One in every of Faison’s boldest strikes was elevating Edward Waters’ athletic profile. In 2018, the college competed within the NAIA—a stage many HBCUs had outgrown.
On July 1, 2021, the college formally turned Edward Waters College (EWU). This step symbolized an expanded educational mission.
Weeks later, EWU efficiently utilized for NCAA Division II membership, with full membership granted in July 2024. The college additionally joined the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Convention (SIAC)—a revered convention in Black school sports activities.
Increasing Sports activities Packages and Services
Edward Waters didn’t cease at becoming a member of a brand new convention. The college expanded its varsity sports activities choices from 8 to 16 NCAA-sponsored applications. This progress created extra alternatives for student-athletes and boosted the college’s visibility.
Main Facility Upgrades:
Nathaniel Glover Group Area & Stadium: Opened in 2021, giving EWU soccer a everlasting, on-campus house for the primary time.
Adams-Jenkins Group Sports activities & Music Advanced: Renovated in 2022 with a brand new fitness center flooring, bleachers, and a digital video board.
New Wellness and Weight Coaching Facility: Inbuilt 2023 to help all sports activities.
NCAA-Regulation Tennis Courts: Not too long ago accomplished, inserting EWU among the many best-equipped small Black personal schools.
The Launch of the Unity Basic
Edward Waters introduced its first-ever soccer basic, the Unity Basic, which can debut on September 13 in opposition to CIAA powerhouse Virginia Union College. This sport marks a major milestone within the college’s athletic journey.
Educational Development and New Graduate Packages
EWU is rising academically as effectively. Since Faison’s arrival, the college has:
Earned college standing
Launched 4 100% on-line graduate applications:
Grasp of Enterprise Administration (MBA)
Grasp of Public Administration (MPA)
Grasp of Schooling (M.A.) in Coverage & Advocacy
Grasp of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity
These applications are designed for career-ready graduates in high-growth industries.
New Undergraduate Packages to Meet Demand
Edward Waters has additionally launched new undergraduate majors, together with:
Forensic Science
Public Well being
Sports activities Administration
Social Work
Laptop & Data Science
Accounting
4+1 Nursing program (in partnership with the College of Florida)
These additions replicate trendy scholar pursuits and at present’s job market wants.
Enrollment Development and Nationwide Curiosity
Underneath President Faison, enrollment has grown by over 30%. Pupil numbers have elevated from about 880 in 2018 to just about 1,200 at present.
For Fall 2025, EWU obtained over 11,500 purposes—essentially the most within the college’s historical past.
Monetary Development and Elevated Fundraising
EWU’s fundraising profile has additionally improved. The college has attracted multi-million-dollar investments from federal, personal, and philanthropic sources. Its endowment and donor base are rising.
These monetary positive factors, mixed with student-focused improvements, have captured nationwide consideration.
Contract Extension for President Faison
Recognizing his impression, the EWU Board of Trustees unanimously prolonged President Faison’s contract by means of 2032. His visionary management is now deeply tied to the college’s continued rise.
