WVU Parkersburg Criminal Justice Students Win First Place in Statewide Crime Scene Competition

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — WVU Parkersburg criminal justice students earned first place in the annual statewide crime scene competition at the West Virginia Criminal Justice Educators Association (WVCJEA) conference, held in October at Marshall University.

Members of the WVU Parkersburg Criminal Justice Student Organization attended the 28th annual event, which centered on the theme “Innovating Justice: The Impact of Technology on Criminal Justice.” The conference provides opportunities for criminal justice students and faculty from across the state to present research, engage in professional development, and discuss emerging issues in the field.

WVU Parkersburg Associate Professor Andrew Walker, who also serves as the college’s Criminal Justice program coordinator, presented on a faculty panel focused on ethics, pedagogy and the role of artificial intelligence in criminal justice education.

The crime scene competition team, consisting of Haley Farson and Lanie Cook, earned first place for their performance in the hands-on investigative challenge.

The WVCJEA was established in 1992 to promote the exchange of educational ideas and curriculum among institutions of higher education and criminal justice training agencies throughout West Virginia. Walker is a past president and current secretary of the association, and Amy Strong, WVU Parkersburg assistant professor, currently serves as its president.

WVU Parkersburg and McClinton Auto Group have partnered to drive opportunity forward

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (Nov. 21, 2025) — WVU Parkersburg and McClinton Auto Group have partnered to launch a new driver’s education program that gives students and community members safe, affordable access to behind-the-wheel training — helping more people gain confidence and skills needed to drive toward independence.

The program, led by certified instructor Sharon Marks, provides hands-on instruction in a Mitsubishi vehicle donated by McClinton Auto Group. Participants learn in a safe, structured environment designed for both new drivers and adults seeking to earn their licenses. Each session allows students time behind the wheel under Marks’ professional supervision, with built-in safety features like a passenger-side break for instructor control.

“This program represents WVU Parkersburg’s commitment to removing barriers, empowering students, and driving opportunity forward — literally and figuratively — for our entire community,” said WVU Parkersburg President Dr. Torie Jackson. “Not every student has equal access to a safe vehicle, insurance coverage, or a parent who can take off work to help them practice. By providing professional instruction and a college-supported vehicle, we’re making sure every student has the same opportunity to learn a critical life skill safely and confidently.”

The course runs in seven-week sessions and welcomes participants ages 15 and older who already have their learner’s permit. Each class includes one brief classroom meeting, followed by a series of supervised driving lessons that give students valuable experience on the road. The cost for the program is $300, and sessions are held year-round on a rotating basis, taking up to nine students at a time.

“Learning to drive can be stressful — for both the student and their parents,” said Sami Daggett, Program Manager of Short-Term Programs. “This program helps reduce that anxiety. Having a certified instructor in the passenger seat gives students the confidence to build their skills safely, while parents can feel comfortable knowing their child is learning from an experienced professional. We’re seeing more and more students who reach college age without a driver’s license, and this is helping to change that.”

Daggett added that the program also benefits adults who never earned a driver’s license. “Whether someone is 15 or 47, this provides a pathway to independence. In our region, reliable transportation is essential for education employment, and this program helps bridge that gap.”

McClinton Auto Group has always believed in giving back to the community that has supported us for more than a century,” said Ginny Bowden, owner of McClinton Auto Group. “When we learned about WVU Parkersburg’s driver’s education program and how it helps students real-world experience, it immediately aligned with our mission of promoting safety, education, and opportunity. Donating a dependable modern vehicle allows us to continue that legacy while helping students learn safely and confidently.”

The collaboration also extends into the classroom: McClinton’s Finance Director, Steven Webster, recently visited students to share practical insights on vehicle financing and ownership, helping prepare them not only for driving, but for real-world decision-making as future car owners.

Dr. Jackson emphasized that partnerships like this are key to WVU Parkersburg’s mission. “Community partnerships are essential,” she said. “WVU Parkersburg strength lies in our connections — with local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and leaders who share our vision for a stronger Mid-Ohio Valley. When our community invests together, everyone achieves more.”

For more information or to register for an upcoming driver’s education session, contact:

The Workforce and Economic Development Division office at 304-424-8274 or visit https://www.wvup.edu/corporate-training/short-term-programs/

WVU at Parkersburg Foundation reopens food pantry to support students impacted by Government shutdown

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Nov. 20, 2025) — In response to the recent federal government shutdown and the sudden loss of SNAP benefits experienced by many local families, the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation has temporarily reopened the college’s food pantry to ensure students have reliable access to food during this period of uncertainty.

The pantry, which reopened on November 1, has already provided 231 students with emergency food boxes. Each box contains enough non-perishable items to feed a family of four for a full week, along with a recipe card showing how to prepare meals using the food inside. Boxes also include a gift card for perishable groceries or infant formula, ensuring students can meet critical household needs that extend beyond canned and boxes goods.

The pantry will remain open until SNAP benefits resume.

“Supporting our students goes far beyond the classroom. The food pantry is one of the most meaningful ways we can ensure their basic needs are met so they can focus on achieving their goals,” said Olivia Reeder, President and CEO of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation. “I’m incredibly proud of the teamwork, compassion, and community generosity that make this support possible.”

Each year, the Foundation also provides Thanksgiving meal boxes to students in need. Last year, 23 Thanksgiving boxes were distributed, feeding families of four and helping students enjoy a full holiday meal without financial strain.

This year, the Foundation is expending its support: eligible students will receive both their regular food pantry box and a Thanksgiving meal box. Thanksgiving boxes include:

• A turkey
• Instant mashed potatoes
• One can of corn
• Gravy
• Mac and cheese
• Dinner rolls
• A premade pie
• Two sticks of butter

“Thanksgiving is about family — the people who give us purpose, encouragement, and love. We’re honored to play even a small part in making those gatherings possible,” Reeder said. “Our Thanksgiving boxes help ensure that our students can spend the holiday focused on family, not worry.”

The WVU at Parkersburg Foundation also operates a Student Emergency Fund, which provides food gift cards and gas cards to students facing unexpected hardship — ensuring they can stay fed and maintain reliable transportation to campus.

In addition, the Foundation collaborates with the United Way, connecting students and families to broader community resources, including extended food assistance outside of college.

“Our hope is that the support we provide fills more than just plates — it fills homes with comfort, gratitude, and the time spent with loved ones,” said Reeder.

For more information about the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation or to support student emergency initiatives, visit www.wvup.edu

WVU Parkersburg Professional Studies Division announces Fall 2025 clinical students

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Nov. 10, 2025) — WVU Parkersburg is proud to announce its Fall 2025 clinical students.

“The yearlong residency model is now a statewide requirement, and it truly strengthens teacher preparation,” said Dr. Megan McKnight, Director of Teacher Education. “Our residents spend the entire school year with the same cooperating teacher and the same K-6 students, experiencing the full cycle of teaching and learning. Our program is intentionally designed to prepare them for this level of engagement and responsibility. This immersive approach allows candidates to develop the practical skills, professional judgment and confidence needed to successfully step into their own classrooms after graduation.”

The Elementary Education Program provides field experience in the classroom as early as the freshman year. Under the traditional student-teaching model, teacher candidates spend a semester in two classrooms and quickly assume teaching responsibilities under the mentorship of an experienced teacher until they are teaching full time. The new residency model places teacher candidates in one classroom for their entire senior year, and they assume responsibilities more gradually.

The Fall 2025 class of students in Education 401 includes:

WOOD COUNTY — Shaley Hughes, Natalie Slusher, Sarah Hill, Savannah Knowlton, Abigail Offenberger, Hannah Parsons, Sam Schuler, James Voutour, Caleb Akers and Ashlynn Taylor

DODDRIDGE COUNTY — Vanessa Patton and Haley Martin

TYLER COUNTY — Aleeha Fletcher, Kaci Shanabarger and Kashia Brown

JACKSON COUNTY — Abigail Roberts, Kyanah Baldwin and Madison Hatcher

Visit https://www.wvup.edu/academics/programs/elementary-education/ to learn more about WVU Parkersburg’s Elementary Education program.

From childhood dreams to Teacher of the Year: Nisha Holley’s Journey from WVU Parkersburg to Ripley Elementary

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Nov. 4, 2025) — Nisha Holley has wanted to teach for as long as she can remember. From a little girl pretending to lead a classroom to standing in front of her own-second grade students today, her journey has been one of patience, perseverance and a lifelong calling.

“I remember being a little girl, pretending to be a teacher… I’ve taken that through my whole life. I’ve been a teacher my whole life, even when I was an insurance agent,” Holley said.

Her dedication recently earned her the honor of Jackson County 2025 Teacher of the Year, an accolade she humbly views as both an honor and a responsibility.

After high school, life took Holley in a different direction. An 18-year career in insurance put her dreams on hold, but the desire to teach never left.

“I never could shake the fact that I wanted to teach and the fact that I felt that I was called to teach,” she said.

In 2019, she returned to school as a nontraditional student at WVU Parkersburg, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, cum laude. Encouragement from Dr. David Lancaster, then chair of the Education Department, gave her the confidence to pursue her dream.

“He and I had a mutual situation, where we were both nontraditional students… he gave me the encouragement that I could do this,” she said.

Her time at WVU Parkersburg prepared her not only to teach, but also to lead in her classroom and community, equipping her with strategies for classroom management, meeting diverse learning needs, and leadership within her school district.

“I feel that WVU Parkersburg prepared me immensely, to be a teacher leader in the classroom,” she said.

She also earned professional certifications in early education, multi-categorical special education, and autism, further expanding her ability to support all learners.

Holley’s love for teaching began in kindergarten. She volunteered in classrooms throughout her school years, helping teachers set up and learn the ropes. That early curiosity stayed with her through every stage of her life, even during her insurance career.

“Every day I’m in the classroom, it solidifies the calling upon my life to teach, I love what I do,” she said.

Stepping into her first classroom as a student teacher was unexpectedly natural, even on short notice. Today, Holley thrives on the energy, curiosity and eagerness of her students.

“What I love most about elementary students is their excitement… They want to get to know you as a teacher, they want to get their teacher to know them.”

Her teaching philosophy emphasizes flexibility, structure and student-centered learning. She creates a classroom where students feel valued, respected and loved, reinforcing that they are capable of anything.

“The most important takeaway for my students in the classroom is that they feel valued, respected, and above all things, loved.”

Beyond the classroom, Holley serves in multiple school leadership roles, including member of the school improvement council, discipline and faculty committees, coordinator of the science and social studies fairs, and a mentor for the West Virginia Grow Your Own Pathway to Teaching program.

“I feel that WVU Parkersburg prepared me… to become a leader within my school community and my district,” she said.

Her dedication extends to advocacy for public education, creating opportunities for parents, families and community members to engage in student learning.

When Holley learned she was Jackson County Teacher of the Year, she was humbled.

“Being a Teacher of the Year… I get to be the spokesperson for the next year, for Jackson County Schools and elevate the public schools,” she said.

For Holley, the award is not just personal recognition. It is also an opportunity to highlight public education, celebrate teachers and inspire students.

To aspiring teachers, Holley emphasizes volunteering observing classrooms and exploring WVU Parkersburg’s Education Department. She wants future educators to understand the dedication and preparation requited, and the importance of building meaningful relationships with students.

“The Education Department at WVU Parkersburg does prepare you for the classroom,” she said. “It is a wonderful program. There is a lot of expectation, a lot of demand.”

Looking ahead, Holley hopes to continue teaching elementary students while eventually mentoring the next generation of educators.

Holley’s journey—from a little girl dreaming of a classroom, to a nontraditional student returning to school to an award-wining educator—is a testament to passion, perseverance and following your calling.

“Teaching is my calling… and my greatest joy,” she said.

WVU Parkersburg celebrates enrollment growth, national recognition and innovative workforce programs

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Nov. 4, 2025) — The WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors met on Tuesday, Oct. 14, to review enrollment milestones, program approvals, and policy updates.

Board Chair Blaine Hess said WVU Parkersburg reached a fall enrollment of 3,015 students, a 9% increase over last year and marking nine consecutive semesters of growth.

“Really pleased to see the continued growth. A lot of people doing a lot of behind-the-scenes work — recruiting, marketing, and also quality programs we have here at WVU Parkersburg help to attract the students we’re serving,” Hess said.

President Dr. Torie Jackson reported that WVU Parkersburg was named one of the top five entrepreneurial colleges in the nation by the National Association of Community Colleges for Entrepreneurship (NACCE).

The recognition coincides with a $45,000 award for the Forging Futures welding initiative, which provides mobile, industry-certified welding training in correctional facilities. The program prepares participants for skilled trades careers upon release.

“Forging Futures embodies WVU Parkersburg’s mission to deliver innovative accessible education that strengthens West Virginia’s workforce, reduces recidivism, and expands opportunity through skill, compassion, and second chances,” Jackson said.

The board unanimously approved a Certificate of Applied Science in Paraprofessional Studies, designed to prepare students for Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT) roles and paraprofessional positions. The pathway allows students to earn the ECCAT credential in one semester, the paraprofessional certificate in the second semester, and continue toward an associate or bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

“This new program provides a clear pathway for students to enter the classroom, advance their education and impact the next generation,” said Dr. David Lancaster, Vice President of Academic Affairs.

The board also approved an action item for online degree program tuition rates, maintaining in-state tuition for fully online programs to expand accessibility for distance learners.

In other news:

• Board members received updates on WVU Parkersburg’s new customer relationship management (CRM) system, which will roll out over the next eight months in partnership with Element451. The system will integrate recruitment, enrollment, marketing, and communications workflows and help prevent fraudulent college applications.
• Several policy updates were also reviewed, including revision to GPA standards, part-time employee classifications, accreditations requirements, and reduced tuition for residents over 65.

The next WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20, 2026.

WVU Parkersburg observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month with Clothesline Project Display

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Oct. 10, 2025) — WVU Parkersburg’s Criminal Justice Student Organization (CJO) will host the Domestic Violence Clothesline Project on campus in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The display will be open to the public in the Criminal Justice Courtroom (Room 0404) from 12:15 to 1 p.m. Oct. 13-16 and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15.

“Each year, 12 million people suffer from intimate partner violence,” said Associate Professor of Criminal Justice Andrew Walker. “Domestic Violence Awareness Month allows us to remember victims and celebrate survivors. Hosting the Clothesline Project on campus brings their stories to life and reminds us that these are not faceless statistics.”

The Clothesline Project began in 1990 as an artistic display of T-shirts decorated by survivors of domestic violence and by those honoring someone who has experienced violence. Each shirt reflects the experience of its creator, and the color of the shirt represents a particular type of violence:

• White — Those who have died as a result of violence.
• Yellow — Survivors of physical assault or domestic violence.
• Red, pink and orange — Survivors of rape or sexual assault.
• Blue and green — Survivors of incest or childhood sexual abuse.
• Purple and lavender — Those attacked because of their sexual orientation.
• Brown and gray — Survivors of emotional, spiritual or verbal abuse.
• Black — Those attacked or assaulted because of a disability.

WVU Parkersburg’s CJO will also collect donations for the Family Crisis Intervention Center. Requested items include paper towels, toilet paper, body wash, hair conditioner, and women’s deodorant. Donations can be dropped off at the Criminal Justice Courtroom (Room 0404), Criminal Justice Lab (Room 0125) or the Division of Professional Studies Office (Room 1020).

To learn more about WVU Parkersburg’s Criminal Justice program, visit wvup.edu/academics/programs/criminal-justice/

For more information or to donate, contact Andrew Walker at wwalker1@wvup.edu or 304-424-8429.

WVU Parkersburg’s Criminal Justice Student Organization provides students with opportunities to engage in service learning and community outreach related to criminal justice issues.

WVU Parkersburg receives full NACCE funding request for Forging Futures welding project

WVU Parkersburg signs new students into Elementary Education program

Parkersburg, W.Va. (October 7, 2025) — The WVU Parkersburg Professional Studies Division hosted a ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 2 to honor students being admitted into the education program, as well as induct new members into Kappa Delta Pi, the National Honor Society in Education.

Students Carly Anderson, Emily Biles, Alisha Cook, Allison Davis, Kallie Heaney, Marissa Jeffrey, Melody Johnson, Hayden Kelly, Austin Lawrence, Mary Morrison, Alissa Saffell and Wyatt Simon were admitted into the Elementary Education Program.

“The Education Signing Ceremony is a huge milestone for our teacher candidates,” said Dr. Megan McKnight, Director of Teacher Education. “Teaching is more than just a job — it’s a calling. To step into this profession, you need dedication not only to your students but also to your own growth. Great teachers never stop learning; they keep building their knowledge and skills. You’ll also serve as role models, showing others what it looks like to grow, adapt, and lead with integrity. That balance — growing yourself while helping others grow — is at the very heart of being an educator,” she continues.

In order to be admitted into the Education Program, candidates must have completed at least 45 hours of coursework, 60 hours of field placement, maintain a 3.0 GPA, pass or be exempt from three PRAXIS Core exams and complete 50 hours of service learning.

During the ceremony each student signed their name as a commitment to the Architects of the Future Code of Honor and were presented with a personalized certificate of admission to the teacher education program, as well as a copy of the Architects of the Future Code of Honor and a lapel pin symbolizing their admission and commitment to the program.

Riley Bettinger, Emily Biles, Alisha Cook, Allison Davis, Virginia Haddox, Kallie Heaney, Marissa Jeffrey, Ryleigh Moore, Mary Morrison, Amylia Myers and Bella Tagliarini Williams were all inducted into Kappa Delta Pi, the National Honor Society in Education.

Kappa Delta Pi, the National Honor Society in Education, inspires and equips teachers to thrive. For over 100 years, this honor society has held fast to the beliefs of community, belonging leadership and celebration.

The Education Department had a reception with food and drinks for guests after the ceremony.

WVU Parkersburg has recently received state approval to offer new education pathways, including the Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT) and Paraprofessional studies programs. These credentials serve as foundational steps toward initial teacher licensure, expanding access and opportunity for future educators across the region. To learn more, visit  https://www.wvup.edu/news/new-pathways-prepare-wvu-parkersburg-students-for-education-careers/

For more information on the WVU Parkersburg Elementary Education program, please visit https://www.wvup.edu/academics/programs/elementary-education/