University of Virginia Library

"Well-Rounded Class"

"Admission was offered to all
qualified students in Virginia
whom we felt could compete in
this academic environment,"
Dean Ern said. "This is a strong,
well-rounded class and we are
confident that it will rank with
the best classes we have had,"
he added.

Dean Ern pointed out that
there are a record number of
13 National Merit Scholars in
the entering class, five more
than last year. In addition,
there are 59 first-year students
enrolled in the Echols Scholars
program, in which students of
exceptional ability devote full
time to a broad area of study.

The entering class has an exceptional
background in extracurricular
activities, the University
dean said. Among the new
students there are 57 who were
student body presidents; 34
senior class presidents; 134 who
edited either high school newspapers
or yearbooks, and 466
members of the National Honor
Society.

There were 221 athletic team
captains and a total of 1,086
varsity letters were won by
members of the entering class.