Concord University is a comprehensive, public, liberal arts institution located in Athens, West Virginia, United States, founded on February 28, 1872, when the West Virginia Legislature passed "an Act to locate a Branch State Normal School, in Concord Church, in the County of Mercer". Founded by veterans of both the Union and the Confederacy, Concord is named for the ideal of "harmony and sweet fellowship". It is known for its picturesque campus which has been dubbed "The Campus Beautiful". The University also operates a center and conducts classes in Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia. Concord University's campus features numerous buildings and facilities. Concord University's main campus is located in Athens, West Virginia. However, the University also operates a center in Beckley, Raleigh County. The facility is located in the Erma Byrd Center (named after the deceased spouse of Robert Byrd), 300 University Drive in Beaver (Access via I-64, Exit 125B, Airport Road). The Center was designed to serve as a catalyst to attract business and industry to the area.