Fall 2025 WVU Parkersburg graduates announced

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (March 10, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is proud to recognize its December 2025 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 December WVU Parkersburg graduates are listed below by county and state:

WEST VIRGINIA GRADUATES:
BRAXTON COUNTY —

Frametown: Hayley Lytle, AAS, BOG

BROOKE COUNTY —

Weirton: Ceairra Curran, CERT, Child Development, Cum Laude

CALHOUN COUNTY —

Mount Zion: Madison Gerlach, CERT, Child Development

CLAY COUNTY —

Duck: Megan Sears, CERT, Child Development, AAS, Child Development

DODDRIDGE COUNTY —

Salem: Corrinna Fullmer, AAS, Nursing

GILMER COUNTY —

Glenville: Brandie Hacker, CERT, Child Development; Rachel Phares, AAS, Nursing

Sand Fork: Jlancey Linden, CERT, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude

JACKSON COUNTY —

Cottageville: Brandy Brown, CERT, Child Development; Evelyn Yeager, AAS, Nursing; Marissa Smith, CERT, Criminal Justice, AAS, Criminal Justice, BAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude

Evans: Luke Lowry, CERT, Industrial Maintenance, Magna Cum Laude

Given: Triston Lanham, AAS, Elementary Education, Cum Laude

Kenna: Dharma Thomas, AAS, Business Administration; Shelby Anderson, CERT, Child Development

Ravenswood: Chelsey Helmick, BAS, Business Administration; Jacob Harvey, BS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Jaleigh Thompson, BAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Myna Spencer, AA, General Education, Magna Cum Laude; Peyton Wolfe, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude

Ripley: Braxton Carpenter, BAS, Business Administration; CERT, Business Administration; Brooke Hosaflook, RBA; Carter Crihfield, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation, Magna Cum Laude; Cassandra Boggess, AAS, Nursing; Madison Price, AAS, Cosmetology, Cum Laude; Pamela Pross, CERT, Business Administration; Stormie Wilkinson, CERT, Business Administration; Joshua Kay, AAS, Business Administration, BAS, Business Administration

Sandyville: George Mowery, CERT, Computing Technologies

KANAWHA COUNTY —

Charleston: Jessica Ball, RBA, Magna Cum Laude; Samantha Wilson, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Tabitha Fowler, CERT, Child Development

Elkview: Morgan Sweeney, AAS, Business Administration

Saint Albans: Candace Gonzalez, CERT, Child Development, AAS, Child Development

South Charleston: Kailey Chapman, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude

LOGAN COUNTY —

Accoville: Nancy Vance, BAS, Child Development, Cum Laude

Man: Angela McDonald, RBA,

MARION COUNTY —

Baxter: Hannah Cunningham, CERT, Child Development

MASON COUNTY —

Letart: Paige Hardcastle, AAS, Nursing, Cum Laude

Mason: Dayna Aspery, AAS, Business Administration

Mount Alto: Racheal Killingsworth, BAS, Child Development

New Haven: Alisha Lyons, CERT, Child Development, AAS, Child Development, Magna Cum Laude

MERCER COUNTY —

Bluefield: Monica Harman, RBA,

OHIO COUNTY —

Wheeling: Jordan Irick, CERT, Business Administration; Shelby Hlad, BAS, Child Development

PLEASANTS COUNTY —

Belmont: Logan White, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude

St Marys: George Cordell, AAS, BOG; Amy Maston, RBA; Darcy Grimes, AAS, BOG, Magna Cum Laude; Dillon Johnson, CERT, Criminal Justice, AAS, Criminal Justice; Elyssa West, AAS, Nursing; Grace Houser, AAS, Nursing; James Maston, AAS, BOG, Cum Laude; Mariah Evans, BAS, Supervisory Management, BS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Olivia Birkhimer, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Paul Gordon, CERT, Computing Technologies

PUTNAM COUNTY —

Scott Depot: Emily Kemper-Ord, CERT, Child Development

RALEIGH COUNTY —

Daniels: Ashley Wilson, CERT, Child Development

Piney View: Crystal Whittaker, RBA, Cum Laude

RITCHIE COUNTY —

Big Springs: Olivia Mccroskey, AAS, Child Development

Cairo: Landyn Jenkins, AAS, Business Administration, AAS, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude

Ellenboro: Madison Hall, AAS, Elementary Education, Cum Laude

Harrisville: Hayden Bartlett, AAS, Computer & Information Tech, Magna Cum Laude; Katarina Huffman, RBA, Cum Laude

Pennsboro: Chandos Hamilton, BS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Kate Williams, AAS, Agribusiness, Cum Laude; Melody Johnson, AAS, Elementary Education; Ryan Weekley, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude

ROANE COUNTY —

Gay: Adreonna Spencer, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration

Spencer: Colton Saunders, BS, Business Administration; Kaitlyn Clarkson, AAS, Computer & Information Tech; Sara Scott, AAS, BOG

TYLER COUNTY —

Friendly: Sheena Steele, AAS, BOG

Paden City: Alec Chaplin, BAS, Business Administration

Sistersville: Chasity Pittman, RBA; Nathan Orr, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation

WAYNE COUNTY —

Genoa: Alison Combs, CERT, Child Development, Cum Laude

Pichard: Nena Lemons, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, BAS, Business Administration

WETZEL COUNTY —

New Martinsville: Ashley Glover, RBA,

Paden City: Joseph Baker, AS, General Education, Cum Laude

WIRT COUNTY —

Elizabeth: Colton Epling, CERT, Business Administration; Jacklyn Cheuvront, AAS, Cosmetology; Kennedy Harris, AAS, Nursing; Michael Estes, AAS, Cosmetology; Teresa Darnell, BAS, Supervisory Management

Le Roy: Moriah Cale, AAS, Cosmetology, Magna Cum Laude

WOOD COUNTY —

Belleville: Ashley Gaston, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Travis Turley, CERT, Computing Technologies, Magna Cum Laude

Davisville: Cali Wilcoxen, CERT, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Chandler Mcdowell, AAS, Criminal Justice; Emmalee Farnsworth, CERT, Business Administration; Kyanne Bush, AAS, Cosmetology; Maddox Dulaney, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Taylor Sargent, AS, General Education, Magna Cum Laude

Mineral Wells: Aiden Maze, CERT, Industrial Maintenance, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation; Brittany Brookover, AAS, Business Administration; Carter Calvert, AAS, Nursing; Eli Francis, BS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Haley Hennen, AAS, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude; Hannah Dolly, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Jacob Frazier, AAS, Business Administration; Jubilee Bollinger, AAS, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Laci Stone, AAS, Nursing; Luke Modesitt, CERT, Criminal Justice; Nathan Calvert, CERT, Computing Technologies; Patience Randolph, AAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Peyton Collins, AAS, Cosmetology, Magna Cum Laude; Savannah Snider, BA, Multi-Disciplinary Studies

Parkersburg: Adriene Marty-Smith, CERT, Business Administration; Alize Talarico, AAS, Cosmetology; Amber Saltz, CERT, Criminal Justice; Andrew Enoch, AAS, Occupational Development, Summa Cum Laude; Andrew Pierotti, CERT, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Andrew Williamson, AAS, BOG; Anessa Stanley, CERT, Business Administration; Anthony Beckett, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Autumn Moneypenny, AAS, BOG; Avery Williams, RBA, Magna Cum Laude; Ayden Yost, CERT, Computing Technologies, Magna Cum Laude; Benjamin Campbell, CERT, Criminal Justice; Bethany Fought, RBA, Cum Laude; Brady Young, CERT, Computing Technologies; Brayden Hill, CERT, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Breece Chaddock, AAS, BOG; Brianna Sharp, CERT, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude; Carli Eakle, RBA; Cera Lamb, AAS, Business Administration; Cody Chipps, AAS, Computer & Information Tech; Courtney Lott, AAS, Cosmetology; Daphne Miner, AAS, Nursing; Denise Hoover, AAS, Digital Media Production, Cum Laude; Devi Davis, RBA; Dylan Hebert, CERT, Criminal Justice; Ean Tustin, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation, CERT, Industrial Maintenance; Eian Grigsby, AAS, Nursing; Elizabeth Landers, CERT, Child Development, AAS, Child Development, Elora Ayers, CERT, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Emily Ebert, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude; Emily Sharp, CERT, Child Development; Emma Bagley, AAS, Cosmetology; Erica Mathess, CERT, Child Development, AAS, Child Development; Gabriel Blosser, CERT, Industrial Maintenance, AAS, Multi-Craft Technology; Grace Small, AAS, BOG; Hayley Hufford, AS, Business Administration; Isabella Leeson, BS, Business Administration; Isabella Rutherford, AAS, Business Administration; Ivy Burdette, CERT, Business Administration, BAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Jarod Peters, AAS, BOG; Jasmin Frederick, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Jason Earl, CERT, Criminal Justice; Jole Weaver, CERT, Welding, Cum Laude; Joseph Overbaugh, AAS, Nursing; Joyce Eddy, AAS, Nursing; Julia Bland, AAS, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Kaitlin Pryor, CERT, Business Administration; Kaleb Westfall, AAS, Business Administration; Karissa Reynolds, AAS, Nursing; Kayleigh Johnson, AAS, Nursing, Cum Laude; Kodie Grant, AAS, BOG, Magna Cum Laude; Krista Sponsler, BAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Kylee Elam, AS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Lauren Brandjes, AAS, Elementary Education; Liam Greene, CERT, Business Administration; Lily Santiago, AA, General Education, Cum Laude; Lindsey Cremeans, AAS, BOG; Lindsey Kupfner, CERT, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Lisa Dalton, AAS, Elementary Education; Mackenzie Willis, AAS, Business Administration; Madison Durkin, AAS, Business Administration; Madison Showalter, CERT, Criminal Justice, AAS, Criminal Justice; Maegan Gaver, AAS, BOG, Cum Laude; Mark Crum, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Marlee Hunt, AAS, Elementary Education, Cum Laude; Maxximillian Greer, CERT, Criminal Justice; Megan Wigal, AAS, Cosmetology, Magna Cum Laude; Melissa Wilson, RBA; Michala Broadwater, CERT, Criminal Justice; Michelle Hurley, BAS, Supervisory Management; Natalie Wood, AAS, Nursing, Magna Cum Laude; Phoenix Swisher, CERT, Business Administration; Rebecca Kalb, AAS, Nursing; Rileigh Dennison, AAS, Cosmetology; Riley Rhodes, AAS, Business Administration; Russell Traugh, AAS, Welding Technology; Ryan Lockhart, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Rylea Mercer, AS, General Education, Cum Laude; Sarah Lee Bennett, CERT, Criminal Justice, Magna Cum Laude; Seth Ashbrook, CERT, Computing Technologies; Sofia Chloe Aliac, AAS, Nursing; Stacia Knowlton, CERT, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude; Sydney Coler, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Tonya Johnson, AAS, Criminal Justice; Trevor Cowan, CERT, Computing Technologies, Magna Cum Laude; Wendy Shackett, CERT, Child Development; William Grant, RBA; William Reynolds III, AAS, BOG; Xavier Leeson, AAS, Criminal Justice; Zackery Scott, CERT, Computing Technologies, Cum Laude

Rockport: Michael Waldron II, AAS, Agribusiness, Cum Laude

Vienna: Abigail Barton, AAS, Nursing; Apollo Cecilia, RBA; Ashley Hastings, CERT, Business Administration; Ashley Slaven, BAS, Supervisory Management, Cum Laude; Brandon Stanley, RBA; Chandler Seita, CERT, Criminal Justice, AAS, Criminal Justice, BAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Daniel Larkin, BAS, Supervisory Management; Emily Coon, CERT, Computing Technologies; Evan McEwuen, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation; Garrett Napier, BAS, Business Administration; Isabella DeAngelo, AAS, Cosmetology; Isaiah Walker, CERT, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Jacob Caplinger, CERT, Business Administration; Jake Barnette, BAS, Business Administration; Joseph Walker, AAS, Digital Media Production, Magna Cum Laude; Kadence Perez, AAS, Elementary Education; Kara Bennett, BAS, Child Development; Konnor Williams, CERT, Business Administration; Lauren McDonnell, AAS, Nursing, Magna Cum Laude; Lauren Walker, AAS, Cosmetology, Cum Laude; Macey Anderson, AAS, Nursing, Cum Laude; Mary Phillips, AAS, Business Administration; Natasha Staats, AAS, Child Development, Magna Cum Laude; Owen Farish, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Reece Nemesek, CERT, Criminal Justice, AAS, Criminal Justice; Riley Nemesek, AAS, Business Administration; Summer Rule, AS, General Education

Walker: Chloe Dicks, AAS, Strategic Communication, Summa Cum Laude; Mackenzie Byrd, RBA, Cum Laude

Washington: Benjamin Kaminski, BAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Cole Joy, CERT, Industrial Maintenance; Jennie Goff, CERT, Child Development; Joan Owen, AAS, Cosmetology; Kari Fordyce, AAS, BOG; Logan Henthorn, AAS, Nursing; Mackenzie Mott, CERT, Criminal Justice; Mackenzie Williams, BS, Business Administration; Oshelle Miller, BAS, Business Administration; Sidney Windland, AAS, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Steven Barton, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Tyler Shedd, AAS, Business Administration

Waverly: Joshlyn Miller, AAS, Criminal

Williamstown: Aaron Tingler, BAS, Business Administration; Aaron Tingler, BAS, Business Administration; Alison Gates, AAS, Digital Communication, Magna Cum Laude; Anna Ashley, AAS, Cosmetology; Avery Smith, AAS, Nursing; Conner Walker, BAS, Comm & Media – Digital Comm; Destin Lantz, AAS, Business Administration; Emily Bailey, BAS, Criminal Justice, Cum Laude; Jedidiah Lane, CERT, Computing Technologies; Joseph Strauss, AAS, Business Administration; Katelynn Tucker, AAS, Nursing; Sean Frye, AS, General Education, Magna Cum Laude; Shayna Ritchey, AAS, BOG; Zachary Smith, AAS, Computer & Information Tech

FLORIDA — Pensacola: Alexandra Felter, AAS, Business Administration

GEORGIA — Grovetown: Jasmine Johnson, AAS, BOG

KENTUCKY — Louisa: Joshua Moore, BAS, Supervisory Management, Summa Cum Laude

OHIO — Guysville: Abigail Guthrie, AAS, Agribusiness, Cum Laude

Loveland: Nicole Joumany, BAS, Child Development

Pomeroy: Maddison Woodyard, AAS, Nursing

Racine: Christian Howell, CERT, Computing Technologies, Summa Cum Laude

Stockport: Katlin Stewart, AAS, Nursing

Caldwell: Kadence Hood, AAS, BOG

Somerset: Aaron Slatzer, BAS, Supervisory Management, Cum Laude

Belpre: Amanda Smith, AAS, Nursing, Cum Laude; Amber Amick, AAS, Nursing; Hannah Burdette, BAS, Business Administration; Tori Chaney, AAS, Cosmetology, Cum Laude

Fleming: Akasha DeLancy, AA, General Education

Little Hocking: Bradly Marks, RBA, Jacob Stealey, CERT, Computing Technologies, Cum Laude; Johnathan Hitt, CERT, Industrial Maintenance, CERT, Electricity & Instrumentation, Summa Cum Laude;

Lowell: Tina Long, AAS, Nursing

Marietta: Adam Catalona, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration, Cum Laude; Alvin Varghese, AAS, Nursing; Ashlynn Dinnin, AAS, Nursing; Camey Gerst, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration; David Cech, RBA; Elisabeth Eye-Rohr, CERT, Criminal Justice, Summa Cum Laude; Eric Wright, RBA; Joshua Schneider, AAS, Nursing; Korland Kampmeier, BAS, Criminal Justice; Monica White, AAS, Nursing; Sidney Marshall, RBA

New Matamoras: Kalyn Cochran, AAS, Cosmetology, Magna Cum Laude

Waterford: Alissa Saffell, AAS, Elementary Education

OKLAHOMA — Atoka: Ryan Loudermilk, AAS, Occupational Development, Cum Laude

Shady Point: Machala Gordon, AAS, BOG

SOUTH CAROLINA — Myrtle Beach: Margaret Full, RBA

TENNESSEE — Jonesborough: Josie Vincent, CERT, Business Administration, AAS, Business Administration

TEXAS — Abilene: Kurtis Vandenboomen, AAS, Occupational Development; Patrick Garrett, AAS, Occupational Development, Cum Laude;

WVU Parkersburg to Host Inaugural MOV Film Festival April 17-18, 2026

Parkersburg, W.Va. (March 9, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg will host the inaugural MOV Film Festival on Friday and Saturday, April 17 – 18, 2026, bringing filmmakers from around the globe and across the Mid-Ohio Valley together for a student-managed celebration of storytelling, creativity and digital media innovation.

The inspiration for the MOV Film Festival began years ago when Cody Davis, Integrated Marketing Communications Faculty member, participated in a similar event as an undergraduate student.

“Students were involved in almost every aspect of the festival from planning and managing to judging,” Davis said. “There was even a class built into the curriculum about film festivals. One of my long-time mentors has been a huge help and has taught me everything I know about them.”

Davis said it was important to bring a film festival to the Mid-Ohio Valley to showcase powerful films created in the region while giving high school and college students an opportunity to see what is possible with a degree in Digital Media Production.

In its first year, the MOV Film Festival has received more than 600 submissions from filmmakers representing every continent except Antarctica. Entries have arrived from countries including China, Russia, Iran, Australia, Ireland, India and South Africa, in addition to numerous submissions from the tri-state area. Students at Ravenswood High School are among the local filmmakers preparing submissions.

“The amount of submissions we have received has honestly been a little overwhelming,” Davis said. “I did not know that it would pick up that much interest. We’ve hit every continent besides Antarctica.”

Despite its global reach, the festival remains rooted in its community focus. Unlike many festivals, the MOV Film Festival does not charge entry fees this year and is fully student managed. WVU Parkersburg students have played a primary role in judging submissions, rating films through a structured review process that evaluates story, audio, lighting and overall quality. Students also provided written feedback and will serve as volunteers during the event.

Jacob Walton, a Digital Media Production student and festival judge, described the experience as a milestone in his academic journey.

“This is the first time ever that I have served as a judge for something this massive before, so being a judge for the Film Festival was a huge milestone in my time as a student,” Walton said. “Reviewing films from other continents was something else that I have never considered doing before. The stories from foreign lands are different because of the cultures they hail from.”

Walton added that the experience strengthened his decision-making skills and deepened his appreciation for storytelling techniques.

“What stood out to me is the quality of most of the films that have been submitted, and there are many different methods displayed to tell a story,” he said. “I absolutely agree with students having hands-on roles on an event this massive. It improves their confidence and experience so they can excel in future projects.”

The animation category has emerged as a standout among submissions, highlighting the advanced digital tools available to modern creators. One notable entry, a short stop-motion animation from Iran titled The Dog, was crafted entirely from black sand, demonstrating the global diversity of technique and artistic expression represented in the festival.

The MOV Film Festival directly reflects WVU Parkersburg’s mission to provide accessible, life-changing educational opportunities in a safe and supportive environment. By hosting an international event on campus, the college offers students résumé-building experience without requiring travel to major metropolitan markets.

“Our students that create something for this festival or take part in the judging have something to add to their résumé that employers will look highly on,” Davis said. “They don’t have to go to some major city or another state to take part in this. It’s right here, on their campus.”

Davis hopes the festival will inspire both current and prospective students long after the final screening.

“I hope that if a student comes to this festival and never realized they could make all of these incredible pieces of work with a degree from WVU Parkersburg, that they decide to enroll,” Davis said. “I would love to have them on board with us.”

For more information about the MOV Film Festival or WVU Parkersburg’s Digital Media Production program, visit www.wvup.edu

Early College student and family donate 70 meals-in-a-bag to support WVU Parkersburg students facing food insecurity

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (Feb. 2, 2026) — When Early College student Myles Barry saw an opportunity to help fellow students, he didn’t hesitate. Together with his mother, Katrina Barry, a member of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation Board, the family donated 70 Meals-in-a-Bag to support students experiencing food insecurity at WVU Parkersburg.

Each bag provides shelf-stable meals that can feed a family of four and is available at no cost to students.

“I have the ability to help, so I wanted to help – because that’s what you should do for your community,” Myles said. “The fact that I take classes at WVU Parkersburg made it feel more personal.”

For Katrina Barry, the donation is rooted in lived experience.

“Food insecurity is something I experienced growing up,” she said. “I remember the anxiety my family carried, even when we technically never went without food for long stretches. There were times when my parents had to make hard choices, and that stays with you.”

Barry said the decision to support WVU Parkersburg students was intentional. As a Foundation Board member, she has seen the growing need among students – particularly nontraditional students and those supporting families of their own.

“College students are often overlooked when people think about food or housing insecurity,” she said. “I wanted there to be dignified, discreet access to food and not just for students, but for the families they support.”

The idea came together after Barry saw a social media post about shelf-stable dinner kits.

“It just clicked,” she said. “Myles has had incredible opportunities through the Early College program, and this felt like a way for our family to help ensure other WVU Parkersburg students have the same chance at success.”

She added that food security is foundational to student success.

“It’s hard to care about an assignment or a test when you’re worried about where the next meal for your family is coming from,” Barry said. “These students are our community’s future nurses, teachers, welders, and professionals. If we want them to succeed, we have to meet their basic needs.”

Olivia Reeder, President & CEO of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation, said the donation reflects the heart of the institution.

“This is what community looks like at WVU Parkersburg,” Reeder said. “When our students and families see a need and step up to meet it, they remind us that education is about more than classrooms. It’s about caring for people so they have the stability to learn, grow, and succeed.”

In simpler terms, Barry said, the decision was unavoidable.

“WVU Parkersburg students needed fed. We can feed them. Morally, I couldn’t not do that.”

Meals-in-a-Bag are available now at Institutional Advancement and are free to any student who needs them.

WVU Parkersburg, Washington State College of Ohio partner to create 2+2 cybersecurity degree pathway

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (Feb. 1, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg and Washington State College of Ohio have signed a partnership agreement establishing a 2+2 degree pathway in cybersecurity.

The agreement allows students to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security at Washington State College of Ohio and then transfer seamlessly to WVU Parkersburg to complete a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cyber Security and Network Administration.

“Our 2+2 Cybersecurity partnership with Washington State College of Ohio represents a shared commitment to academic excellence and innovation. By aligning our Bachelor of Applied Technology curriculum with WSCO’s foundational programs, we are creating a seamless pathway that empowers students to achieve advanced credentials while fostering cross-institutional collaboration that strengthens the future of technology education,” said WVU President Dr. Torie Jackson.

The partnership is designed to expand access to bachelor’s degrees in a high-demand field while supporting regional workforce development. West Virginia currently ranks near the bottom nationally in baccalaureate degree attainment, and the program aims to help address that gap by providing students with a clear, structured pathway to a four-year degree.

Courses for the bachelor’s degree will be delivered by WVU Parkersburg through its online learning platform, allowing students to complete upper-division coursework after finishing their associate degree at Washington State College of Ohio.

Students will also receive coordinated academic advising from both institutions to ensure a smooth transition and support timely degree completion.

“This 2+2 agreement is more than an academic pathway; it’s a strategic investment in our region’s future. By equipping students with industry-aligned cybersecurity skills and credentials, we are helping meet the growing demand for qualified professionals across our communities, driving economic opportunity and strengthening our regional workforce,” Jackson said.

The 2+2 cybersecurity pathway is open to students who complete the Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security at Washington State College of Ohio and meet WVU Parkersburg admission requirements.

WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors sets strategic direction for 2026, highlights ITC progress

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (Jan. 22, 2026) — The WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors met Tuesday to outline strategic priorities for 2026, review continued enrollment growth and financial stability, and tour ongoing improvements at the Innovation and Technology Center campus in Vienna.

President Dr. Torie Jackson said the college’s focus for the year ahead centers on intentional growth, workforce alignment and continuous improvement, with recruitment and retention viewed as investments in people and opportunity.

“Our goals remain clear and grounded in purpose,” Jackson said. “If we stay focused on students and their success, and commit to being one percent better each day, those small improvements add up to meaningful change for our institution and our region.”

Jackson said WVU Parkersburg will continue targeted efforts to grow enrollment at the Jackson County Center while expanding the Innovation and Technology Center, positioning the college as a leader in innovation, entrepreneurship and workforce development.

Board Chair Blaine Hess reported that spring enrollment remains strong, with headcount up about 5%, or 152 students, from last year and full-time equivalent enrollment increasing by more than 60 students.

“Given what we’re seeing nationally, with college enrollment, these numbers are encouraging,” Hess said.

As part of committee reports, board members participated in a tour of the Innovation and Technology Center, led by Jackson, highlighting completed and in-progress spaces designed to support academic programs, student services and community partnerships.

Board member David Bowles said the tour included technology-enabled classrooms, the Engineering Innovation Lab, the podcast studio, expanded shipping and receiving operations, and a child care center expected to serve up to 130 children. The tour also highlighted student housing, outdoor gathering areas intended to enhance the student experience, future restaurant operations, and space planned for expanded cosmetology programming.

Chief Financial Officer Brad Wilson reported a positive financial outlook midway through fiscal year 2026, with tuition and fee review for the fall and spring terms up $226, 299 compared with the same period last year. He also noted the college has been awarded 85 grants totaling $13 million since fall 2023, with 61 grants currently active.

“Responsible financial management and the strategic pursuit of grants remain key to sustaining growth and supporting the college’s mission,” Wilson said.

In action items, the board approved four new academic programs aligned with regional workforce needs: a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting, Accounting (CPA Track) and Financial Management, and an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services.

Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. David Lancaster said the programs were developed in response to stakeholder input and reflect the college’s commitment to continuous improvement.

The board also approved updates to several Board of Governors policies, including revisions related to meal breaks, academic credit and micro-credential pathways. Board members also discussed plan for events tied to the college’s upcoming 65^th anniversary.

The next WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

Regents Bachelor of Arts Degree Program Marks 50 Years of Helping West Virginia Achieve Their High Education Goals

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Jan. 20, 2026) — WVU Parkersburg is marking the 50th anniversary of the statewide Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) degree program, which was created to meet the needs of adult learners across West Virginia.

The RBA degree is designed for students who balance work, family, and other responsibilities. The program offers credit for life and work experience, options for compressed courses, and the ability to take online and weekend classes.

“The RBA program at WVU Parkersburg is helping students achieve their goals and dreams every day,” said Kim McFee, director of RBA & BOG AAS degree programs. “Not everyone follows a traditional path to a degree, and the RBA program can be a perfect fit for those already in the workforce or for individuals who started college but did not finish. We are always happy to support our students as they find the pathway that is right for them, and we are proud that the RBA program helps so many succeed.”

The West Virginia State Board of Regents created the RBA program in 1975. In just the past five years, more than 3,200 RBA degrees have been awarded statewide. According to a recent National Student Clearinghouse report, in 2024 there were 179,965 West Virginians under the age of 65 who had some college credit but no credential. The RBA program provides a flexible pathway for adult learners to cross the finish line and complete their degree.

“This incredibly unique and flexible degree program is an unsung hero in West Virginia’s higher education story,” said Dr. Chris Rasmussen, vice chancellor for academic affairs for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. “We know that many adults in West Virginia enter the workforce and believe returning to college is no longer an option. The RBA program’s flexibility and credit for work experience make earning a degree possible for so many across our state, and these graduates are making a difference at work and in their communities every day.”

The only prerequisite for the RBA degree is a GED or high school equivalent and being out of high school for at least three years. Many adult learners pursuing an RBA degree may also qualify for financial aid.

For more information about financial aid at WVU Parkersburg, call 304-424-8310 or email finaid@wvup.edu.

For more information about the RBA program, contact Kim McFee at 304-424-8321 or email kmcfee1@wvup.edu.

WVU Parkersburg computer information technology students rank among top performers in National Cyber League Fall 2025 season

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Jan. 7, 2025) — Students enrolled in the Associate of Applied Science Computer Information Technology program at WVU Parkersburg earned national recognition through their performance in the National Cyber League Fall 2025 season, a competitive cybersecurity challenge that tests real-world technical skills.

Six teams of AAS Computer Information Technology students from the Introduction to Security course participated in the Fall 2025 Cyber League competition, with all six teams placing in the top 15% nationally among 4,214 teams. One team achieved an exceptional 72^nd-place finish overall and ranked first in the web application exploitation category, demonstrating advanced skills in identifying and addressing web-based security vulnerabilities.

“Allowing our students to compete nationally is competitions improves their confidence,” said Dr. Torie Jackson, president of WVU Parkersburg.

The National Cyber League is a biannual, online cybersecurity competition that provides high school and college students with hands-on experience in scenarios modeled after professional cybersecurity work. Competition challenges include areas such as network traffic analysis, digital forensics, cryptography, system auditing and web application security.

“Participating in cybersecurity competitions such as National Cyber League allows the students to apply theory from their coursework in a realistic, time-sensitive environment, which helps them have a better understanding of professional cybersecurity work,” said Doug Rhodes, associate professor of computer information technology at WVU Parkersburg. “The NCL also provides scouting reports to the students, which is a great addition to their degree, allowing them to showcase their strengths and skills to future employers.”

The web application exploitation category focuses on how modern websites can be compromised when security is overlooked. Students are expected to recognize and exploit common flaws in website design and development, preparing them to help design and implement safeguards against those types of attacks in real-world cybersecurity roles.

While teams in the National Cyber League may include students from multiple institutions, the competition’s power ranking reflect performance by students and teams from the same institution. Based on student performance in the Fall 2025 season, WVU Parkersburg ranked 80^th nationally and 36^th in the Eastern Division.

“We are thrilled to see the level of competency on global issues like cybersecurity being recognized in Vienna, West Virginia,” Jackson said.

Participation in competitions such as the National Cyber League supports WVU Parkersburg’s commitment to providing career-focused, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for employment in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity.

For more information about the Computer Information Technology program at WVU Parkersburg, visit https://www.wvup.edu/academics/programs/computer-and-information-technology/

WVU Parkersburg awarded $815,824 National Science Foundation Grant to expand Cloud Computing Technician Education

Parkersburg, W.Va. (Dec. 18, 2025) — WVU Parkersburg has received an $815,824 Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant from the National Science Foundation, the U.S. government’s independent science agency.

The three-year grant will support the college’s Building a Pathway to Cloud Computing Careers in West Virginia project, which will implement WVU Parkersburg faculty members’ ideas to improve technician education and create a new associate degree program aligned with industry demand.

“It is such an honor for WVU Parkersburg to be the recipient of a National Science Foundation grant. It takes months of planning to be eligible for these prestigious federal opportunities. Michele Wilson worked diligently to pursue this opportunity,” said Dr. Torie Jackson, president of WVU Parkersburg. “For students, this is exciting as it allows us to pursue our two-year degree in Cloud Computing, a joint partnership with Amazon Web Services. Using curriculum and degree pathways that are esteemed in the technical industry allows us to elevate our programming and to provide the Mid-Ohio Valley students with a unique skill set that makes them marketable for many job opportunities across the globe.”

Enrollment opens Fall 2026. For more information, call 304-424-2274 or email wed@wvup.edu.

The project will design, develop, and implement a new Cloud Computing Associate Degree in partnership with Amazon Web Services. The program will prepare students for careers in cloud technology by teaching AWS-based infrastructure, cloud architecture, networking, security, and automation. Students will gain hands-on experience with AWS tools and services, develop the problem-solving skills required for modern IT environments, and prepare for industry-recognized certifications leading to roles such as cloud support technician, cloud systems specialist, or junior solutions architect.

The grant will fund technology purchases, two new cloud computing faculty members, and a dedicated students success coach who will advise students, support academic planning, and help improve retention, according to Principal Investigator Michele Wilson, Dean of Workforce, Technical and Computer Information Science Division.

As principal investigator, Wilson will lead the initiative with Co-Principal Investigators Kurt Knopp, Charles Almond, and Olivia Reeder.

• Knopp will work with business and industry partners to align the program with workforce needs.
• Almond will lead curriculum development, proposals, and academic approvals.
• Reeder will oversee marketing outreach for the new program.

“This is a prestigious and highly vetted national grant whose intent is to ensure that institutions of higher learning have the resources to implement programs with major impact on national economic development, national security concerns, and cutting-edge technologies. Being awarded the grant communicates the belief by the federal government that WVU Parkersburg has a well thought out plan to drive cutting-edge learning in our region,” Knopp said.

Wilson and President Jackson began preparing the grant proposal in 2023 with mentoring and technical support from Mentor-Connect, which provides resources to help two-year college faculty write competitive NSF proposals. Mentor-Connect is an ATE project led by Florence-Darlington Technical College in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges.

“Mentor-Connect is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a mentor for any questions you may have with the NSF grant. Also, it is a way to connect with other successful NSF grantees and learn from their experiences,” Wilson said.

The ATE program focuses on the education of technicians who work in high-tech fields that drive the nation’s economy. Because two-year community and technical colleges are the leading sources of technician education in the United States, faculty from these institutions have played leadership roles in most ATE projects since the program began in 1993.