Fork Union Military Academy

Fork Union Military Academy (abbreviated as FUMA) is a private, all-male, college preparatory military boarding school located in Fork Union, Virginia. Founded in 1898, Fork Union is considered one of the premier military boarding academies in the United States. Fork Union is a member of the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States and the National Association of Independent Schools and is affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia. FUMA's curriculum extends from the 7th to 12th grade and hosts a one-year postgraduate program. History Located on a campus in the rolling hills of central Virginia's Piedmont region, Fork Union Military Academy was initially founded as Fork Union Academy in October 1898 by Dr. William E. Hatcher, a prominent local Baptist minister. The first class had nineteen students. In 1902, the academy took on a military structure to provide organization, discipline, and physical development for the boys of a rapidly growing school. In 1913, the academy became an all-male institution and changed its name to Fork Union Military Academy. That same year, the academy began receiving support from the Baptist General Association of Virginia, which continues to this day.