WVU Parkersburg launches Cloud Computing program connecting technical skills to business needs

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (October 16, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is launching a new Cloud Computing program designed to prepare students to build and manage cloud resources while understanding the costs and business decisions behind them. Starting in Spring 2027, students can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Cloud Computing.

The program is led by Bill Minear, Cloud Computing & Automation Instructional Specialist, who brings experience in IT and the software industry, where he worked with cloud technology and automation for large organizations using Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.

In simple terms, cloud computing means paying a provider to run computing resources that organizations access over the internet, rather than buying and housing hardware themselves. Businesses can get started without waiting to acquire equipment, and they can scale resources up or down as demand changes, such as when website traffic spikes.

“In today’s world, with regards to technology, you’re going to encounter it,” Minear said about cloud computing. “Whether it’s the primary focus of your role or not, it’s going to be a consideration.”

Students will learn AWS technologies using AWS curriculum, along with skills that transfer to other cloud platforms. Instruction will begin with hands-on labs in the AWS web console so students understand the resources and terminology. From there, students will learn infrastructure as code, which involves writing code to define and deploy computing resources rather than configuring each one by hand. Minear plans to use tools such as Terraform, which builds resources in AWS and other cloud providers, and to include some hands-on pipeline development.

Minear said the program is built around how businesses use cloud technology, including the costs involved.

“I want students to understand how businesses actually use cloud technology,” Minear said. “That means learning how to build and manage resources, but also understanding the costs and decisions behind them.”

Core IT knowledge still applies, he said.

“The fundamentals of networking and computing still apply,” Minear said. “What changes is how those resources are deployed and managed.”

Minear noted that many entry-level IT jobs begin in help desk or support roles, including positions supporting organizations that use cloud resources, which can build the experience needed to advance. He called cloud computing a growing field.

“It is an in-demand field, and it’s growing pretty quickly,” Minear said.

Because the program is new, Minear plans to watch what works and adjust it, and he hopes to bring in outside professionals to discuss how they use cloud technology.

“I want to keep adjusting the program so students gain the skills they need and employers have people prepared to use these technologies,” Minear said.

Visit https://www.wvup.edu/academics/programs/cloud-computing/ to learn more about the Cloud Computing program.

WVU Parkersburg to host 2026 Career Fair Oct. 20

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (October 1, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg in partnership with the Mid-Ohio Valley Workforce Development Board and Ross Innovative Employment Solutions, will host its 2026 Career Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday. Oct. 20, in the Multi-Purpose Room at 300 Campus Dr.

Themed “More Than a Job Fair. A Path Forward,” the event gives students and job seekers the chance to meet employers, ask questions, explore career paths and learn about opportunities available throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley. It is designed to help attendees build professional connections and prepare for what comes next.

Employers are invited to showcase available positions and meet job seekers ready to explore their next career move. Community resource organizations are also welcome to participate and share services that help individuals and families thrive. Participation is free.

“The career fair gives our students and community members an opportunity to connect directly with employers hiring right here in the Mid-Ohio Valley. We’re grateful to our partners at the Workforce Development Board and Ross Innovative Employment Solutions for helping make this event possible,” said President Dr. Torie Jackson.

The Career Fair is open to the public, and students and job seekers do not need to register to attend.

Employers and community organizations interested in reserving a table should RSVP to Mary Casto, Career Services Specialist at WVU Parkersburg, at careerservices@wvup.edu.

WVU Parkersburg announces Summer 2026 President’s and Dean’s scholars

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 29, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is pleased to announce its President’s and Dean’s scholars for the Summer 2026 semester.

President’s Scholars

Students on the President’s List maintained a 4.0 grade point average while earning 12 or more hours of college credit. The scholars include:

WEST VIRGINIA —

JACKSON COUNTY — Ravenswood: Olivia Profitt;

Ripley: Abriella O’Dell;

KANAWHA COUNTY — Charleston: Kayla Wiseman;

Elkview: Morgan Sweeney;

MARION COUNTY — Fairmont: Starla Merrifield;

MONONGALIA COUNTY — Morgantown: Miciah Jones; Madison Ross;

PLEASANTS COUNTY — St Marys: Ashley Rankin;

RITCHIE COUNTY — Harrisville: Tristen Ginanni;

ROANE COUNTY — Spencer: Jessica Fischer;

WETZEL COUNTY — New Martinsville: Alison Alexander; Tanley McEldowney;

WIRT COUNTY — Elizabeth: Kennedy Harris;

WOOD COUNTY — Belleville: Cassidy Patterson;

Mineral Wells: Nathan Calvert; Emily Proscia; Patience Randolph;

Parkersburg: Delon Ables; Madison Burdette; Stephanie Christensen; Kristina Heathcoat; Brianna Sharp; Autumn Smith;

Washington: Gabriella Brady; Karri Hebert; Logan Henthorn; Rylee Waggoner;

Waverly: Joshlyn Miller;

Williamstown: Mason Deem;

OHIO — Lowell: Tina Long;

Mcconnelsville: Destiny Jackson;

Dean’s Scholars

Students named to the Deans’s List maintained a 3.5 grade point average while earning six or more hours of college credit. The scholars include:

WEST VIRGINIA —

BARBOUR COUNTY — Philippi: Brittany Burner; Kris Jones;

BRAXTON COUNTY — Frametown: Hayley Lytle; Tabitha Statts;

BROOKE COUNTY — Weirton: Ceairra Curran;

CABELL COUNTY — Milton: Kristen Nichols;

Salt Rock: Charity Paz-Romero;

CALHOUN COUNTY — Arnoldsburg: Lexi Gregory;

Chloe: Abigail Nicholas;

Creston: Christina Miller;

Grantsville: Kendra Davis;

Orma: Brealle Arthur;

Rosedale: Kayla Montgomery;

DODDRIDGE COUNTY — Salem: Payton Currey; Corrinna Fullmer;

West Union: Courtney Tilley;

HANCOCK COUNTY — Chester: Brenda Evans;

JACKSON COUNTY — Evans: Camryn Harvey; Ryan Manley; Presli Milam;

Kenna: Jack Donelson; Destiny Jones;

Leroy: Braxton Tabor;

Ravenswood: Haylee Brown; Macy Casto; Jody Mullins; Alexis Patterson; David Patterson; Savanah Rodriguez;

Ripley: Henry Bunnell; Stephanie Hernandez; Stormey Knopp; James Templeton;

Sandyville: Zane Balis; Lane Snyder; John Stone;

KANAWHA COUNTY — Charleston: Brandy Brown; Tabitha Fowler; Joely Good; Kayla Milam;

Gallagher: Katie McClung;

MARSHALL COUNTY — McMechen: Mackenzie Lagos-Goodwin;

Mcmechen: Phebe Pylypchuk;

MASON COUNTY — Apple Grove: Rachel Martin;

Letart: Thomas Anderson;

MONONGALIA COUNTY — Maidsville: Elyse Griswold;

NICHOLAS COUNTY — Craigsville: Lesley Green;

PLEASANTS COUNTY — Saint Marys: Ashley Barnhart; Stacey Britton; Jonathan Eddy; Tanner Langmeyer; Kenzie West;

St Marys: Mary Morrison; Loree Spitzer;

Waverly: Aaron Drake;

PRESTON COUNTY — Eglon: Christina Dyer;

PUTNAM COUNTY — Hurricane: Faith Adams;

Red House: Madison Goldsberry;

RITCHIE COUNTY — Cairo: Morgan Miner;

Ellenboro: Tiara Arzillo;

Harrisville: Brianna Edwards; Taylor Fordyce; Kaitlyn Sullivan; Isaac Walsh;

Smithville: Brooke Freeland;

ROANE COUNTY — Gandeeville: Stacey Miller;

Gay: Zachary Stump;

Spencer: John Bowen; Alexis Burdette; Daniel Hill; Sara Scott;

Walton: Addison Rexroad;

TUCKER COUNTY — Davis: Dorothea Arbough;

Thomas: Angela Johnson;

TYLER COUNTY — Middlebourne: Cooper Clayton;

WETZEL COUNTY — New Martinsville: Walter Alexander; Jenna Brown; Norma Edgar; Rose Kennedy;

Proctor: Tiffany Clark;

WIRT COUNTY — Elizabeth: Aden Archer; Donald Powell; Ashley Riffle; Candace Stephens;

Palestine: Ashley Wiley;

WOOD COUNTY — Belleville: Jackson Dearth; Chris Hofmann; Nontakon Raethong; Rochel Young;

Davisville: Liliya Beha; Trenton Creel;

Fairmont: Shannon Settle;

Mineral Wells: Brody Allman; Samantha Bevins; Jubilee Bollinger; Shawn Brewer-Marsh; Julia Church; Cole Dickson; Jerrod Gard; Stacie Hays; Haley Hennen; Brody Johns; Jacob Linton; Amanda Lyons; Ryan Martin; Rylee Parsons; Lauren Powers; Matthew Stone; Jaiden Vargas; Bridget Wines; Seth Wood; Clayton Yeager;

Parkersburg: Nora Akers; Shane Anderson; David Bailes; Madelynn Ball; Justin Barker; Coleen Barnhart; Brenna Barrows; Allison Brabham; Phoenix Bradley; Abigail Broadwater; Brianna Burchard; Christine Carter; Janie Cokeley; Alisha Cook; Tiffany Cook; Tyler Copanic; Mary Craft; Taylor Easton; Emily Ebert; Andrew Edgar; Alyiah Flinn; Maegan Gaver; Liam Greene; Ashlee Gregory; Brylee Jackson; Tonya Johnson; Adam Kinzy; Cassidy Knight; Cera Lamb; Misty Lowe; Christina Lumeyer; Sydney Maze; Bradford McCleary; James Mink; Heaven Mounts; Logan Nutter; James Perkins; Marley Pickens; Eugene Pleasant; Crystal Powell; Crystal Proctor; Kaitlin Pryor; James Roberts; Julia Roush; Ava Sayre; Kelsey Sink; Ashley Smith; Destiny Smith; Serenity Sprouse; Lindsay Stehly; Tori Stutler; Jasmine Toussaint; Clara Vanfossen; Colby Whiting; Kadence Wise; Amber Wright; Anna Yost;

Rockport: Ashley Hill; Michael Waldron Ii;

Vienna: Jaime Broadwater; Justin Eaton; Autumn Gainer; Codie Goots; Brittany Hicks; Emily Higginbotham; Amia Jenkins; James Martin; Autumn Nelson; Emily Snyder; Natasha Staats; Andrew Thomas; Brandon Tripler; Maya Turner; Justin Welsh;

Walker: Lakkyn Starcher; Gerard Taylor;

Washington: Sara Bowers; Hailey Brady; Caleb Casto; Lanie Cook; Destiny Foutty; Reagan Foutty; LaDawn Joy; Mackenzie Luther; Sophie McClure; Typhanie McPherson; Chad Moore; Sierra Mundy; Alexis Smith; David Wanstreet; Sidney Windland;

Waverly: Joshua Brookover; Roy Cain; Skyler Ford; Emily Mcmillan;

Williamstown: Anthony Auth; Zachary Gray; Matthew Jarrell; Joshua Joy; Phillip Kelley; Avery Smith;

INDIANA — Bloomington: Michael Brown;

NORTH CAROLINA — Raleigh: Alexsia Jackson;

OHIO — Amesville: Dustin Salser;

Arcanum: Mitchell Montgomery;

Athens: Kailyn Tritipo;

Belpre: Adrienne Blair; Christian Byrne; Ellie Christman; Summer Colvin; Joshua Duley; Heath Foutty; Kelsie Greenman; Carlie Hamilton; David Mosser; Amanda Smith;

Bethesda: Amanda Starr;

Caldwell: Riley Bettinger;

Cincinnati: Briannah Howard;

Coolville: Tiffany Sampson;

Fleming: Kenady Sams;

Little Hocking: Robert Reynolds Jr; Ryan Stark;

Long Bottom: Owen Davis;

Marietta: Lauren Battin; Ethan Brown; Zachary Brunetti; Daniel Decker; Natalie Dye; Camey Gerst; Abigail Jones; Balin Luft; Joshua Martin; Clara Noelle;

New London: Jacob McIntosh;

New Matamoras: Dylan King; Karen Shreves;

Newport: Elizabeth Gordon; Morgan Haught;

Pomeroy: Bryce Davis; Tanner Palmer;

Portland: Trisha Blankenship; April Fraley;

Proctorville: Destiny Tuller;

Reedsville: Brandi Durst;

Reno: Molly Cline;

Twinsburg: Gage Piggott;

Waterford: Patrick Dawson; Vanessa Hoff;

SOUTH CAROLINA — Jackson: Adam Abbadusky;

Myrtle Beach: Addison Parks;

TEXAS — Bivins: William Wilder;

Portland: Jesus Vasquez;

San Angelo: Andrew Ontiveroz

Summer 2026 WVU Parkersburg graduates announced

Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 29, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is proud to recognize its Summer 2026 graduates who have earned certificates, associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees. These graduates exemplify academic excellence, dedication and perseverance.

Graduates achieving a 3.50 to 4.00 grade point average (GPA) have been awarded academic honors, as follows: 3.50-3.749, Cum Laude; 3.75-3.99, Magna Cum Laude; and 4.0, Summa Cum Laude. The May WVU Parkersburg graduates are listed below by county and state:

WEST VIRGINIA GRADUATES —

 CABELL COUNTY — Ona: Cody Honaker, CERT, Child Development

 CALHOUN COUNTY — Mount Zion: Olivia Fitzwater, CERT, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude

 Rosedale: Kayla Montgomery, AAS, Child Development, Magna Cum Laude

 GREENBRIER COUNTY — Lewisburg: Mary Pence, RBA

 JACKSON COUNTY — Cottageville: Logan Skurupey, BS, Nursing

 Evans: Nicole Tate, BS, Nursing; Staci Turner, RBA

 Millwood: Braylin Tabor, BS, Nursing, Cum Laude

 Ravenswood: Macy Casto, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Jaylyn Evans, CERT, Business Administration; Jody Mullins, AAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Alexis Patterson, CERT, Criminal Justice; Jacob Seebaugh, CERT, Welding, Magna Cum Laude

 KANAWHA COUNTY — Charleston: Joely Good, BAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Victoria McGinnis, BS, Nursing; Kayla Milam, AAS, Child Development; CERT, Child Development, Magna Cum Laude

 Clendenin: Josi Coiner, AAS, Child Development

 Elkview: Brayden Vankirk, AAS, Board of Governors

 Marmet: Karlee Smith, BS, Nursing

 MARION COUNTY — Fairmont: Starla Merrifield, RBA, Magna Cum Laude

 MARSHALL COUNTY — Proctor: Allison Blake, BS, Nursing

 MASON COUNTY — Mason: Jayla McClanahan, CERT, Child Development, Magna Cum Laude

 Point Pleasant: Destiny White, CERT, Criminal Justice

 MONONGALIA COUNTY — Maidsville: Elyse Griswold, AAS, Board of Governors, Magna Cum Laude

 Morgantown: Siobhan Glenn, AAS, Board of Governors

 PLEASANTS COUNTY — St Marys: Kaden Danielson, AAS, Multi-Craft Technology; CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation; CERT, Industrial Maintenance; Haley Farson, AAS, Criminal Justice; CERT, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Lacy Shingleton, AAS, Board of Governors; Jacob Wilson, AAS, Digital Media Production, Cum Laude

 PUTNAM COUNTY — Scott Depot: Madalyn Carpenter, BS, Nursing

 RALEIGH COUNTY — Crab Orchard: Ann Thomas, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude

 RITCHIE COUNTY — Davisville: Trinity Smith, BAS, Business Administration

 Harrisville: Lily Butcher, BS, Nursing, Magna Cum Laude; Isaac Walsh, AAS, Board of Governors

 Pennsboro: Michael Leggett, BS, Nursing

 ROANE COUNTY — Reedy: Kalista Williams, BS, Business Administration, Cum Laude

 Spencer: Emily Chandler, BS, Nursing, Cum Laude

 TUCKER COUNTY — Thomas: Angela Johnson, CERT, Child Development

 WETZEL COUNTY — New Martinsville: Debra Glendenning, BS, Nursing

 Reader: Olivia Scyoc, BS, Nursing

 WIRT COUNTY — Elizabeth: Josey Asbury, CERT, Criminal Justice; Tyrah Bentz, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude

 WOOD COUNTY — Belleville: Bradley McPeek, BS, Nursing; William Morrison, AAS, Skilled Trades

 Belmont: Sage Harper, AAS, Elementary Education, Cum Laude

 Davisville: Jessica Freeman, AAS, Board of Governors

 Mineral Wells: Nathan Calvert, BAT; Amanda Lyons, RBA; Katie McKitrick, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Luke Modesitt, AAS, Criminal Justice; Neil Morehead, AAS, Board of Governors; Molly Overton, AAS, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude; Jarrett Sampson, AAS, Computer Science; CERT, Computing Technologies; Clayton Yeager, AAS, Integrated Marketing Comm, Cum Laude

 Parkersburg: Brenna Barrows, CERT, Criminal Justice; Tyler Copanic, BAS, Business Administration; AS, Business Administration; Chad Eddy, RBA; AAS, Board of Governors; Alyiah Flinn, AA, General Education; Maya Gordon, AA, General Education, Cum Laude; Stephanie Ketchem, RBA; Stacia Knowlton, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Cerinity Linko, AAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Christina Lumeyer, BAS, Criminal Justice; Rowan Mallery, AAS, Elementary Education; Raya Morrison, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Kaitlin Pryor, AAS, Business Administration; Elizabeth Ramsay, BS, Nursing; Kaitlyn Sartin, CERT, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Brianna Sharp, AAS, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude; Kelsey Sink, AAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Ryan Smetana, AAS, Digital Media Production; CERT, Digital Media Production; Wyatt Smith, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation, Magna Cum Laude; Sarah Strode, AAS, Board of Governors, Cum Laude; Kaleb Windland, CERT, Criminal Justice

 Vienna: Isabelle Deem, AS, General Education; Miranda Foland, AAS, Board of Governors; Caitlyn Hart, AAS, Business Administration; Emily Higginbotham, BS, Nursing, Cum Laude; Allie Lowther, AAS, Elementary Education, Cum Laude; Keaton Lowther, AAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; James Martin, RBA; Jacob McKnight, AAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Matthew Moore, AAS, Board of Governors; Riley Nemesek, CERT, Business Administration; Brandon Tripler, BAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Isaiah Walker, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Heather Whaley, BS, Nursing; Konnor Williams, AAS, Business Administration

 Walker: Miranda Beatty, AA, General Education, Magna Cum Laude; Ivy Hogue, BS, Nursing, Cum Laude

 Washington: Drew Corley, BS, Business Administration; Destiny Foutty, AAS, Digital Media Production; CERT, Digital Media Production, Summa Cum Laude; Reagan Foutty, AAS, Digital Media Production; CERT, Digital Media Production, Magna Cum Laude; Adreana Linville, BS, Nursing, Cum Laude; Sophie McClure, RBA, Magna Cum Laude; Kameron Wilson, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation, Magna Cum Laude

 Waverly: Kayle Cottrill, BS, Nursing

 Williamstown: Savannha Cottrill, BS, Nursing

 INDIANA — Bloomington: Michael Brown, AA, General Education, Magna Cum Laude

 NEW JERSEY — East Windsor: Nichole Chobin, AAS, Board of Governors, Summa Cum Laude

 NEW YORK — New Rochelle: Eunice Onyeukwu, BS, Nursing

 OHIO — Belpre: Jennifer Fiest, BS, Nursing; Kaitlyn Scott, BS, Nursing; Kimberly Weiner, RBA

 Cincinnati: Adnane Hafdi, AAS, Board of Governors

 Edon: Levi Brandt, AAS, Technical Studies

 Marietta: Martha Lassiter, CERT, Criminal Justice; Ashley Miller, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude

 Pomeroy: Bryce Davis, AAS, Board of Governors, Summa Cum Laude

 Rutland: Tiffany Mahoney, RBA

 TEXAS — Bivins: William Wilder, AAS, Occupational Development, Summa Cum Laude

 El Campo: Colby Herzik, AAS, Occupational Development, Cum Laude

 San Angelo: Ryan Carman, BAS, Supervisory Management

 WASHINGTON — Centralia: Carly Stephens, BS, Nursing

Mischief, magic and donkey ears come to WVU Parkersburg on October 15

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 25, 2026) — Love triangles are messy, but adding enchanted forest juice and a runaway troupe of amateur actors turns romance into outright mayhem.

On Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM, West Virginia’s Shakespeare troupe, The Rustic Mechanicals, land at West Virginia University at Parkersburg to stage William Shakespeare’s uproarious comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Audiences can expect a high-energy, fast-paced production packed with warring fairy monarchs, baffled runaway lovers, dynamic music, and a very literal translation of making an ass out of oneself. The Mechanicals’ signature performance style pairs Renaissance wit with Appalachian drive, ensuring a night of accessible, razor-sharp classical theatre that proves the course of true love never did run smooth—or quietly.

Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM

WVU Parkersburg Main Campus, Parkersburg, WV

General Public: $17 in advance / $25 at the door

Campus Community: Free admission for all current WVU Parkersburg students, faculty, and staff with valid institutional ID

Seating is limited, and advance purchase is strongly encouraged before the fairy dust settles.

WVU Parkersburg President urges Congress to support Pell Grants, workforce funding

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 18, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg President Torie Jackson was a featured speaker Thursday at a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill on the role of community colleges in workforce development and student success.

The Association of Community College Trustees, in partnership with the Community College Coalition, hosted “Strengthening America’s Workforce Pipeline: The Role of Community College in Federal Education and Workforce Investments” at the Russell Senate Office Building. U.S. Sens. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, gave opening remarks. The briefing focused on Pell Grants, Adult Basic Education, Child Care Access Means Parents in School and Strengthening Community College Training Grants.

Jackson spoke alongside college leaders and students from across the country.

“It was an honor to be selected by ACCT to represent WVU Parkersburg, West Virginia, and community colleges nationally in Washington,” Jackson said. “As a former Pell Grant recipient, I know personally how important federal support can be in making college possible. That opportunity changed the trajectory of my life, and today’s students deserve access to those same opportunities.”

Jackson told the audience she worked during high school to help support her family after her father lost his job. “I decided in high school that education would be my path to something different,” she said. A Pell Grant made college possible, and “I was actually able to graduate from college with almost no debt.”

She also described how federal workforce funding has affected students in West Virginia. In 2022, the U.S. Department of Labor awarded a $6.2 million Strengthening Community College Training Grant to three West Virginia community colleges, including WVU Parkersburg, to strengthen nursing education.

Jackson said the grant has helped WVU Parkersburg increase its nursing student population by 62.4%, expand class capacity, add student coaches and faculty, and increase simulation and clinical hours.

“We have a 100 percent pass rate for all our graduates whenever they do take their tests at the end,” she said. “[The grant] allows you to take your program and be able to expand it.”

While in Washington, Jackson also visited the offices of Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice and Rep. Carol Miller, and met with the chief of staff for Rep. Riley Moore.

“We are doing incredible things in the Mid-Ohio Valley, and it is important for federal leaders to see the real results of their investments — students earning credentials and degrees, families gaining economic opportunity, and employers getting the skilled workforce they need,” Jackson said. “The work happening at WVU Parkersburg is a great example of the impact community colleges have every day, and more people should know our story.”

The Association of Community College Trustees represents more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees who govern more than 1,000 community, technical and junior colleges in the United States and beyond.

WVU Parkersburg teacher candidates begin Fall 2026 residencies

Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 9, 2026) — Eight WVU Parkersburg teacher candidates are spending the fall 2026 semester immersed in K-6 classrooms as part of the university’s yearlong teacher residency program.

“The Residency Model has been such a wonderful addition to teacher preparation programs. Residents are given the opportunity to work with the same cooperating teacher and the same K-6 students for an entire year,” said Dr. Bobbi Marshall, dean of Professional Studies. “Being able to participate in the same class for a full school year gives teacher candidates the opportunity to participate in the start of the school year as well as the end of the school year. The full year experience provides teacher candidates with the skills that they need to successfully step into their own classroom 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 2026 class of students in Education 401 includes:

JACKSON COUNTY — Lanna Bragg

WIRT COUNTY — Kelsie Means

WOOD COUNTY — Lauren Brandjes, Kaitlin Duckworth, Marlee Hunt, Allie Lowther, Megan Mestuzzi and Rylee Wise

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

WVU Parkersburg invited to return to nationally recognized Metallica Scholars Initiative as the workforce education program expands to over 90 schools

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (September 9, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is proud to announce it has once again been asked to participate in the eighth year of the prestigious Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI). Supported by a generous grant aimed at enhancing the student experience and career readiness within its technology and media programs, WVU Parkersburg awarded 127 scholarships across multiple programs — including Computer Science, Computer Information Technology and Digital Media Production — totaling $113,751. The college has also funded approximately 159 certification exams, valued at $29,268.

Dr. Torie Jackson, President of WVU Parkersburg, said:

“Every Metallica Scholar has a story of determination, resilience and hope. For eight years, this extraordinary partnership has helped our students move from possibility to purpose by providing the resources they need to complete their education and begin meaningful careers. We are incredibly grateful to All Within My Hands and AACC for believing in community colleges and, most importantly, believing in our students.”

All Within My Hands (AWMH), the non-profit, philanthropic organization created by the members and management of Metallica, proudly announces the eighth year of its Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) with its largest grant to date: over $3.3M. 18 new U.S. schools will join the returning 75 colleges in the fall for a total of 93 in the program. In addition, later this year, the Metallica Scholars Initiative will also expand to the United Kingdom in partnership with Capital City College Group in London.

“This thing started as a dream. Now our program is changing lives. To expand our impact on a global scale and support even more students is so rewarding. We’re so proud of all the Metallica Scholars who have come through it and all the ones who will participate in it. It’s humbling to know we’ve been part of the journey of thousands of trade professionals doing good, hard work in the world.”

-James Hetfield, Metallica Band Member

AWMH continues to work closely with its long-time partner, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands, MSI’s core focus is supporting conventional trades, including welders, plumbers, and electricians, while also adding fields that will generate the jobs of tomorrow. The workforce initiative continues to evolve, supporting diverse fields for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to establish meaningful careers that provide family-sustaining wages. Year 8 includes a wide range of fields, including nursing and healthcare, optical systems technology, automotive repair, maritime manufacturing, firefighting and EMT, pipefitting and agricultural pathways.

Dr. DeRionne P. Pollard, President and CEO, AACC, said, “The continued growth of the Metallica Scholars Initiative is a powerful testament to what’s possible when visionary philanthropy and community colleges come together around a shared mission. Through this partnership, 13,000 community college students have already been supported across the country, earning the skills needed for in-demand careers with family-sustaining wages. This latest, generous investment by Metallica’s foundation will reach more learners, while strengthening the workforce pipelines that power local economies. We are proud to partner with All Within My Hands to scale this impact, ensuring even more students have access to life-changing opportunities in the skilled trades and beyond.”

The initiative’s eighth iteration also marks the renewal of AWMH’s partnerships with Carhartt, Wolverine, CNH Construction and Upstaging, Inc., as well as the addition of the Foundation’s newest partner, ServiceTitan. These corporate partners complement the Foundation’s Executive and Advisory Board Members and the broader Metallica Family, all of whom have played a role in advancing AWMH’s mission and driving its success.

Peter Delgrosso, Executive Director, AWMH, said, “Metallica Scholars Year 8 will see our largest-scale growth yet, as we anticipate supporting close to 4,000 new students in the United States and more than 1,000 learners in the UK. This represents an approximate 40% increase in our student body, something we are incredibly excited about. Supporting people of all ages entering and ascending through trades is the right thing to do, not just domestically, but also abroad. Our Metallica Scholars have demonstrated resilience and a strong determination to succeed, which in turn motivates us to match their ambition.”

About WVU Parkersburg

WVU Parkersburg, established in 1961, is a life-changing institution for the students and communities it serves. The college offers over 40 degree programs, workforce development, short-term career training programs and community education classes. WVU Parkersburg is also the only community and technical college in West Virginia to offer bachelor’s degrees, and it is home to Tower 61 Radio, broadcasting on WPKM 96.3 FM, the first community college radio station in the state.

About All Within My Hands

Established in 2017, All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a non-profit, philanthropic organization conceived by the members and management of Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. Metallica covers all administrative costs, so 100% of donations go directly to the organizations supported by the Foundation. To date, All Within My Hands has provided grants of $19M to career and technical education programs through its Metallica Scholars Initiative, $8.8M to combat food insecurity, and $6.2M to disaster relief and other critical local services worldwide. Visit AllWithinMyHands.org to learn more. And follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About American Association of Community Colleges

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) delivers educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers, and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all. https://www.aacc.nche.edu/

WVU Parkersburg accepting applications for EMT short-term program

Parkersburg, W.Va. (August 28, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is accepting applications for its Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) short-term program, designed to prepare individuals for entry-level careers in emergency medical services.

Classes will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from Sept. 28 through Dec. 16, 2026, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at WVU Parkersburg’s Main Campus.

The program provides students with the knowledge, hands-on skills and real-world experience needed to begin a career in emergency medical services. Through instruction, skills labs, and clinical and field experiences, students develop the confidence and competence to provide safe, effective emergency care.

“Our division at WVU Parkersburg is focused on offering programs that meet the needs of local business and industry while providing students with relevant, high-quality training that leads to employment,” said Abby Campbell, program manager at WVU Parkersburg. “Our new EMT short-term program gives students an opportunity to quickly gain the skills and training needed to begin a career in emergency medical services, while also creating a clear pathway to continue their education through WVU Parkersburg’s Emergency Medical Services degree program. We’re excited to offer a program that can help meet an important workforce need in our region while giving students options to continue growing in the field.”

The EMT program was developed to reflect real-world emergency care environments and current industry standards. The combination of classroom instruction, skills labs and clinical and field experience is designed to give students practical preparation and a clear understanding of employer expectations for entry-level EMTs.

“The EMT short-term program provides students with the knowledge, hands-on skills and real-world experience needed to begin a career in Emergency Medical Services. Through instruction, skills labs and clinical and field experiences, students develop the confidence and competence to provide safe, effective emergency care. Successful completion of the course prepares students and provides eligibility to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) EMT certification examination, helping develop job-ready EMTs who can strengthen the region’s EMS workforce and serve the emergency care needs of our local communities,” said Chad Knox, EMS program director at WVU Parkersburg.

EMTs are in demand across the region, with opportunities at ambulance services, fire departments and hospitals.

The cost of the program is $2,000 per person. Funding or payment plans must be secured by Sept. 14, 2026, two weeks before the first day of class. Class size is limited to 10 students, with a minimum of five students required to run the program.

To apply, visit wed.apply.wvup.edu. For more information, email wed@wvup.edu or call 304-424-8274.

WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors honors longtime administrator, welcomes new member and advances policy agenda

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (August 19, 2026) — The WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors met Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, to swear in a new board member, approve a policy update for public comment and hear updates on enrollment, finances and campus programs as the college opened its fall semester with a renewed focus on student success.

President Dr. Torie Jackson opened the meeting by honoring the memory of Alice Harris, associate professor of accounting, who served the college for more than a decade, including as executive vice president of finance and administration. Jackson credited Harris with guiding the college through some of its most challenging financial years and helping mentor many members of the current staff.

“She was a trusted leader whose careful management and long-range vision helped strengthen the financial foundation of our college, positioning us for the opportunities we continue to pursue today,” Jackson said.

The board observed a moment of silence in her honor. The college community will celebrate Harris’s life on Sunday, Aug. 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the College Activities Center.

The Honorable Timothy Sweeney, judge of the Third Circuit Court, administered the oath of office to new board member Sami Kincaid at the start of the meeting.

In her report to the board, Jackson recapped the college’s fall welcome-back session, where five students shared their personal journeys with faculty and staff returning for the semester. She said the stories were designed to challenge every employee to consider how their work contributes to student success. Jack Comeau, known as Moon King, attended the board meeting after being recognized this month with the Governor’s Service Award in the Young Adult category for his volunteer work and community service while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Jackson also praised the college’s College 101 orientation, led by Dr. Jared Gump, who was also on hand, noting the effort drew roughly 30 employees to help welcome new students to campus.

Board Chair Blaine Hess reported the college has now posted 11 consecutive semesters of enrollment growth and holds the highest student retention rate among West Virginia’s community colleges. Chief Financial Officer Bradley Wilson told the board that summer enrollment rose 9.2% in full-time-equivalent students, generating roughly $124,957 in additional tuition revenue.

The board voted to move an updated version of Policy A-43, “Disability Accommodations,” forward for a 30-day public comment period. Jackson said the revision aligns the policy with current West Virginia code and adds language committing the institution to engage in good faith in an interactive process to identify reasonable accommodations. The board also received four policy updates as information items, with no board action required: Policy B-03 (“Sabbatical Leave”), Policy B-08 (“Holidays”), Policy B-12 (“Adjunct Faculty”) and Policy B-54 (“Emergency Call-In”). Jackson noted the sabbatical leave revision drew written comment from two faculty members but was supported by all five academic deans and the vice president of academic affairs.

“Every decision made by this board and every action taken by our employees creates opportunities for students to discover their potential and build brighter futures,” Jackson said.

The Board of Governors will next meet Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026.