Dr. Ricardo Ortegón’s Journey Across Virginia’s Private Colleges: A Milestone Achievement
Each spring, college counselors from across the United States and around the world participate in the Virginia Private Colleges Tour, an immersive professional development experience that provides first-hand insight into the institutions they recommend to students and families. This year, with participants joining from countries such as Canada and Morocco, Dr. Ricardo Ortegón, founder of GPS College Guidance, reached an important milestone by earning an “Honorary Doctorate” in Virginia Private Colleges after completing the tour for three consecutive years.
This recognition reflects a sustained commitment to visiting every private college and university in Virginia over a three-year cycle, gaining a deep understanding of academic offerings, campus culture, and student life across the state.
During the Spring 2026 tour, Dr. Ortegón visited Hampden-Sydney College, Hampton University, Randolph-Macon College, Regent University, the University of Richmond, Virginia Union University, and Virginia Wesleyan University. Below are selected highlights from each institution, along with campus photos captured during the tour. Undergraduate enrollment figures for Fall 2024 are included for context and are sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Hampden-Sydney College (Hampden-Sydney, VA)
One of the few remaining all-male colleges in the United States.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 946 students
One of the oldest colleges in the United States, founded in 1775, with a long-standing tradition in liberal arts education.
Expansive 1,300-acre campus
Distinctive honor code and emphasis on rhetoric, writing, and leadership
Hampden-Sydney College
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Hampden-Sydney College 〰️
Hampton University (Hampton, VA)
A prestigious HBCU with a rich legacy and strong academic reputation.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 3,728
Home to the Hampton University Museum, the oldest African American museum in the United States, featuring an extensive collection of African, African American, and Native American art
Beautiful waterfront campus along the Chesapeake Bay
Strong programs in business, engineering, and aviation
Hampton University
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Hampton University 〰️
Randolph-Macon College (Ashland, VA)
A close-knit liberal arts college with a strong sense of tradition.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 1,643 students
Located in Ashland, known locally as the “Center of the Universe”
Offers a direct-entry nursing program for students pursuing healthcare careers
Features an on-campus Amtrak station, providing exceptional accessibility
Close faculty-student interaction and strong advising model
Randolph-Macon College
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Randolph-Macon College 〰️
Regent University (Virginia Beach, VA)
A faith-based institution with a growing national presence.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 5,049 students
Founded by Pat Robertson
School’s motto is ‘Christian Leadership to Change the World’
Strong programs in communications, law, and public policy
Robust online and on-campus program options
Regent University
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Regent University 〰️
University of Richmond (Richmond, VA)
A selective liberal arts university known for its strong undergraduate focus and beautiful campus.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 3,055 students
Recently joined the QuestBridge network, expanding access for high-achieving, low-income students
Need-blind in admissions for U.S. students
Offers a unique “Spider” identity and strong emphasis on undergraduate research and interdisciplinary learning
University of Richmond
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University of Richmond 〰️
Virginia Union University (Richmond, VA)
A historically Black university (HBCU) with a mission rooted in access, equity, and leadership development.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 1,205 students
Strong programs in business, criminal justice, and theology
Deep ties to the Richmond community and a focus on social impact
One of the nation’s oldest HBCUs, founded in 1865
Virginia Union University
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Virginia Union University 〰️
Virginia Wesleyan University (Virginia Beach, VA)
A liberal arts institution known for innovation and environmental focus.
Undergraduate enrollment (Fall 2024): 1,749 students
Officially changing its name to Batten University effective July 1, 2026
Incorporating health sciences programming connected to Sentara, strengthening its offerings in nursing, healthcare administration, and allied health fields
The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art is establishing a presence on campus, further enhancing opportunities in the arts
Virginia Wesleyan University
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Virginia Wesleyan University 〰️
A Commitment to Expertise and Insight
Experiences such as the Virginia Private Colleges Tour are central to the GPS College Guidance approach. By visiting campuses, engaging directly with admissions representatives, and observing student life firsthand, Dr. Ortegón ensures that his guidance is informed, current, and grounded in real experience.
This milestone achievement reflects a continued commitment to providing students and families with thoughtful, well-informed college guidance based on deep institutional knowledge and ongoing professional development.
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