Stories | WVU Today | West Virginia University

Ascend WV Healthcare, First Ascent WV Healthcare applications now open

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 12:30:00 -0400

Applications are now open for Ascend WV Healthcare and First Ascent WV Healthcare — launched by the West Virginia University Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, in partnership with West Virginia Tourism and major healthcare organizations statewide — that invite healthcare professionals and graduating students to live and work in the Mountain State.

The programs aim to recruit and retain healthcare professionals while expanding access to quality care across West Virginia. Participants receive cash incentives, community, purpose, outdoor adventure, and a pathway to make “Almost Heaven” home.

WVU Statler College to launch nuclear engineering pathway

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 12:30:00 -0400

As the Mountain State looks toward a future shaped in part by nuclear innovation, West Virginia University is laying the academic groundwork to prepare engineering students for careers across the expanding nuclear sector.

Beginning in 2027, the WVU Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources will introduce courses that establish the foundation of a nuclear engineering career pathway for eligible students across engineering disciplines.

WVU releases annual Clery Act report

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 08:30:00 -0400

Reflecting the dedication and diligence of the West Virginia University Police Department to keeping the campus community safe, the latest Clery Act report is now available.

“Our officers, dispatchers, and emergency support staff serve our University community with pride and principle,” Chief Sherry St. Clair said.

WVU exercise physiology student builds path to medicine through service

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 00:01:00 -0400

For West Virginia University student Sophia Bell, preparing for a career in medicine has meant putting her education into practice while giving back to the community she calls home.

WVU focuses on location for new teacher recruitment and retention effort

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 12:15:00 -0400

Taking steps toward strengthening the teaching workforce in the Mountain State, West Virginia University will address critical staffing shortages among educators and enhance teacher preparation programs by building connections through an innovative, place-based approach.

Funded with more than $1.6 million from the Appalachian Regional Commission Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization or POWER Initiative, the three-year project will be led by the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences, in partnership with the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative, and the WVU Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, and will integrate three complementary pathways to recruit, prepare, place, and retain teachers in schools and communities across West Virginia.

WVU issues Community Notice with safety tips about drug, alcohol use

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 11:36:24 -0400

The West Virginia University Police Department issued a Community Notice on Wednesday, Sept. 23, to raise awareness about risks to those choosing to use drugs or alcohol.

To be safe, members of the community are advised to avoid substances that have not been obtained lawfully, and contact UPD if they believe they’ve taken or otherwise been exposed to any counterfeit pills or other illegal substances.

WVU Student Life announces 2026 Hall of Fame, Outstanding Achievement Award honorees

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 12:01:00 -0400

A legendary West Virginia University rifle team coach and pioneering sports psychologist who dedicated his career to supporting the well-being of student-athletes, and two former campus leaders who spent decades championing student success and elevating the college experience will be honored for their outstanding contributions to the University.

The WVU Division of Student Life will recognize Ed Etzel as the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award, and induct Corey Farris and Pam Hagedorn into the 2026 Hall of Fame during an awards dinner beginning at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, in the Mountainlair Ballrooms. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

WVU-led NSF RETI Engine builds regional workforce network to power energy economy

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 08:30:00 -0400

From introducing middle school students to energy careers to helping experienced workers earn new credentials and offering tailored training to upskill others, the Resilient Energy Technology and Infrastructure Consortium led by West Virginia University is actively building a workforce network designed to meet the energy industry’s needs today — and anticipate the jobs it will need tomorrow.

After being awarded a $160 million investment from the U.S. National Science Foundation , the NSF RETI Engine is bringing together employers, educators, and workforce organizations across West Virginia and western Pennsylvania to build stronger pathways into energy and energy-adjacent careers.

Student director keeps WVU men’s soccer moving on and off pitch

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 00:01:00 -0400

Ben Lohmann, director of operations for the West Virginia University men’s soccer program, is responsible for keeping the team and season flowing with behind-the-scenes responsibilities, while also juggling being a full-time sport management student in the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences.

WVU Tech launches scholarship program for southern WV students with $1.8M Pack gift

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 15:51:40 -0400

West Virginia University Institute of Technology is empowering the next generation of Mountain State leaders to excel with a new scholarship program that will cover outstanding education costs for high-achieving students from southern West Virginia.

The WVU Tech Golden Scholars program is launching with a generous $1.8 million personal gift from Larry and Lisa Pack of Charleston. Larry Pack earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting at WVU Tech, completed a successful career in accounting and the healthcare industry, and now serves as West Virginia State Treasurer.