Since its founding in 1886, Winthrop University's central role in South Carolina has been to provide college educational opportunities for students from diverse and disadvantaged groups. Winthrop University's approved mission statement clearly states that "Winthrop prides itself on being an institution of choice for groups traditionally under-represented on the college campus." A large fraction of Winthrop students come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Nearly half (49%) of a recent incoming freshmen cohort were first generation, had financial need, or were from under-represented groups.
