Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Wright and modeled after her alma mater Tuskegee Institute, Voorhees was an industrial school, emphasizing a vocational curriculum for rural African-Americans. The school was named for and funded by philanthropist Ralph Voorhees. In 1967 it became a senior Liberal Arts college. The school provides students with academic, cultural, social and religious experiences. In addition, pre-professional curricular offerings are available for students who desire additional education in professional or graduate schools. Athletic facilities include a 2,200 seat sports arena, swimming pool, track and field facility, lighted outdoor doubles tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball, softball and soccer fields.