WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors sets strategic direction for 2026, highlights ITC progress
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 65th anniversary.
The next WVU Parkersburg Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
