News Type: Campus

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia —  West Virginia Wesleyan College has announced Rev. Dr. Matthew Paugh, senior pastor of Bridgeport United Methodist Church in Bridgeport, West Virginia, as the Baccalaureate speaker. Paugh will speak at the service held Friday, May 8, 2026 at 7 p.m. in Wesley Chapel.

A native of Kitzmiller, Maryland, Paugh holds a Bachelor of Arts from Messiah College, a Master of Divinity from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary, and is currently pursuing Ph.D. studies at Bangor University.

Matthew has served in pastoral ministry in Maryland and West Virginia and previously taught Bible and Theology at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. He has also contributed to ministerial education through teaching in the West Virginia Extension Course of Study and in lay ministry training across the Conference.

He and his wife, Melissa, and their son, Isaiah, live in Bridgeport, where he enjoys preaching, teaching, and helping others connect faith with everyday life.

The Baccalaureate service is open to all graduates, who are asked to wear cap and gown, but no cords or hoods. Guests are welcome. The main commencement ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m. in Rockefeller Gymnasium. For more information on Commencement, visit www.wvwc.edu/commencement

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia —The West Virginia Wesleyan College Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) conducted its 63rd annual induction on March 18, 2026, in the Meditation Chapel.  The circle inducted 21 individuals into the organization including two graduate students, one senior, two juniors, 13 sophomores, and three faculty.

The Wesleyan Circle of ODK was established in 1963 and has inducted over 1,200 students, faculty, and staff.  Student eligibility is based on the top 35 percent of each class in scholarship, as well as participation in one of the following: athletics, music, arts, journalism and community service.

Newly inducted members include:  Graduate students, Cayley Symons, Buckhannon, West Virginia; Kimberly Brown, Crawford, West Virginia; Senior, Cole Price, Waynesville, N.C.; Juniors, Emily Wanless, Elkins, West Virginia; Jessica Nuzum, Clarksburg, West Virginia; Sophomores, Ava Smith, Carmichaels, Pennsylvania; Lily Garton, Weston, West Virginia; Ella Fournier, Westland, Michigan; Eleanor Smith, Bridgeport, West Virginia; Taylor Hess, Worthington, West Virginia; Sawyer Henderson, Big Springs, West Virginia; Jordan Groves, Bridgeport, West Virginia; Lynzee Hague, Sulphur Springs, Texas; Rae Rupert, Pennsboro, West Virginia; Chase Gora, Kernersville, N.C.; Avery Bangsund, Clermont, Florida; Nasif Mohammed, Alpharetta, Georgia. 

Also inducted were Dr. Tracie Dodson, School of Business; Valerie Jordan, School of Nursing and Dr. Drew Mason, Athletic Training and Exercise Science.

Participating in the ceremony were Dr. Thomas Smith, faculty advisor, Alisa Suttle, dean of students and circle advisor, and Jessica Wagner, director for community engagement and circle staff.  Officers participating included Srikiran Nandigama ‘26, president, and Ellie Pergoletti, treasurer.  Guest speaker was Paula McGrew, professor of library science and director of library services emeritus.  Student officers for the 2025-2026 academic year include Avery Bangsund ‘29, President; Ava Smith ‘29, Vice President and Chase Gora ‘29, Treasurer.

Omicron Delta Kappa was founded on December 3, 1914, on the campus of Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia.  The Society was founded by a group of 15 students and faculty who believed that leadership at the collegiate level should be recognized and encouraged across all phases of campus life.  The motives which guided the founders sprang from the desire to bring together one body for the general good of the institution, leaders from all parts of the college or university community.  The success of the ODK idea, an essential part of which is its inter-generational nature and a determination to maintain a consistent and high standards of leadership recognition, led to the establishment of chapters, which are called circles, at other colleges.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

 

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — West Virginia Wesleyan College’s Center for Cultural & International Affairs and the Thomas H. Albinson II School of Business will host the BSU Business Expo on Thursday, March 19.

The event, presented in partnership with the College’s Black Student Union, will bring together students, entrepreneurs and business professionals for a day focused on innovation, mentorship and professional development. All WVWC students are invited to participate.

The BSU Business Expo will feature vendors, a grant workshop, mentorship opportunities and presentations from special guests, providing students with hands-on exposure to entrepreneurshind business leadership.

A grant writing for creatives workshop will be held at 10 a.m. in the CCIA office on the second floor of Benedum Campus Center.

Beginning at 11 a.m. in the side dining room, there will be more opportunities for networking. 

Dr. Patricia Williams Dockery, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Morgan State University and who is also a filmmaker and museum curator, is the keynote speaker. Other special guests include Crystal Good MFA ‘16, CEO of BBG news publication;  Danielle Walker, former state delegate;  and Eric “Monstalung” Jordan, a hip hop artist and historian and program director for the WVU Center for Black Culture.

From 3-4 p.m. Sabine Murat, MSW and Fleurma Murat, BSHA, will discuss women’s health and empowering women to prioritize their wellbeing. 

At 6 p.m. Monstalung will present a hip hop performance and discussion on “Have You Found Your Passion?” in the side dining room. Rock band E11EVEN will perform from 9-10 p.m. in the social hall for a free concert. 

Two WVWC student contestants will also have the opportunity to present their business ideas in a Shark Tank–style competition, with two $250 awards available to support their entrepreneurial ventures.

Organizers say the expo is designed to connect Wesleyan students with experienced professionals who can provide insight into launching businesses, securing funding and building successful careers. Throughout the day, attendees can interact with vendors, participate in the grant workshop, and engage with mentors and guest speakers who represent a wide range of professional backgrounds.

“The BSU Business Expo is an exciting opportunity for students to explore entrepreneurship, learn from industry leaders and connect with mentors who can help guide their professional journeys,” Laurie Goux, director of the Center for Cultural and International Affairs, said. 

 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

 

Continuing its commitment to strengthening community capacity across the region, the Center for Community Engagement & Leadership Development (CCE) at West Virginia Wesleyan College will host a Community Lab on Marketing titled “Marketing Strategies that Resonate,” presented by Agency LMC, on Friday, April 10, from 3:00–4:30 p.m. in Hyma Auditorium (first floor of the Christopher Hall of Science) on Wesleyan’s campus.

This free, public, and interactive seminar is designed for community partners, nonprofit leaders, students (including Wesleyan Service Scholars), and local business leaders interested in strengthening their outreach and communication strategies.

Agency LMC, a regional firm specializing in advertising, marketing, public relations, and social media management, will provide insight into effective strategies that resonate with audiences while reflecting on the unique needs and opportunities within local communities.

Participants will explore practical marketing and social media approaches that help organizations engage their communities, increase visibility, and advance their mission and organizational goals. The session will feature hands-on exercises, real-world examples, and applied discussion designed to ensure attendees leave with actionable tools they can immediately implement to strengthen their marketing and digital communication efforts.

The CCE’s Community Lab series supports the Center’s mission to advance West Virginia Wesleyan College’s commitment to transformative learning and community engagement that promotes positive social change.

Event Details:
Friday, April 10
3:00–4:30 p.m.
Hyma Auditorium (first floor, Christopher Hall of Science)
West Virginia Wesleyan College

 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

 

 

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – The woods are waking up, the fairies are restless, and a little bit of magic is coming to
Buckhannon.

The Rustic Mechanicals, West Virginia’s only professional Shakespeare troupe, are thrilled to announce a special free performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at West Virginia Wesleyan College on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

Widely considered Shakespeare’s most accessible and enchanting comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
invites the audience into a mystical forest where four runaway lovers, a troupe of amateur actors, and a feuding
King and Queen of the Fairies cross paths. The result? A night of transformation, hilarity, and the reminder that ‘the course of true love never did run smooth.’

“We are bringing the magic of Shakespeare directly to the community,” says Jim Warren, the production’s
director. “This show is pure joy—a perfect escape into a world of whimsy, right here on the Wesleyan campus.”

This production is open to the public, and admission is completely free. Showtime is at 7 p.m. in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts.

ABOUT THE RUSTIC MECHANICALS
Founded by The Vintage Theatre Company, The Rustic
Mechanicals are dedicated to ensuring that the works of William Shakespeare are alive, accessible, and
understood by audiences throughout West Virginia.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — Morehead State University SpaceTrek Program, in partnership with TMC  Technologies, is proud to announce that the West Virginia SpaceTrek Program is officially launching  its second year and expanding to West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) in Buckhannon, West  Virginia. The 2026 program will take place July 12–25, 2026, hosted on the WVWC campus. 

SpaceTrek is a residential summer program in space systems engineering designed for young  women entering 9th–12th grade or enrolling as first-year college students. The program provides  immersive, hands-on experiences in aerospace engineering, satellite technology, and STEM  disciplines, giving students an unparalleled opportunity to learn in a university environment while  preparing for future careers in the space and technology sectors. 

“West Virginia Wesleyan College offers an exceptional environment for SpaceTrek, and we are  delighted to expand the program to their campus for 2026,” said Morehead State University STEM  Center of Excellence Director and SpaceTrek founder, Jen Carter. “The institution’s academic  strengths and dedication to student learning make it an ideal partner as we continue to grow  SpaceTrek’s reach across Appalachia.” 

“West Virginia Wesleyan College is thrilled to partner with our friends at TMC Technologies to host  SpaceTrek and support this incredible program for young women pursuing STEM,” said West Virginia  Wesleyan College President James Moore. “Experiences like this spark curiosity, build confidence,  and show students that they belong in high-impact fields like aerospace and engineering. When  students engage in hands-on, real-world science at this level, it strengthens not only their technical  skills but their long-term academic success and college readiness. We are proud to help open doors  to opportunity for talented students across West Virginia.”  

This expansion into central West Virginia is made possible through a $3.98 million grant from the  Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger  Economies (ARISE) program. 

Partnering for Success 

The success of the West Virginia SpaceTrek Program is driven by strong collaboration between TMC  Technologies, Morehead State University, and the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative  (WVPEC). 

TMC Technologies, a leader in advanced engineering, aerospace innovation, and technical workforce  development, is handling programmatic operation and management, engineering expertise,  multimedia management and engagement, and exposure to real-world aerospace tools and  technologies. 

“We greatly value our expanded partnership with TMC Technologies, whose leadership in managing  the West Virginia SpaceTrek program strengthens our shared mission to prepare young women for  the opportunities ahead in space systems engineering and STEM fields,” Carter added. 

Denise Lindsey, Chief Strategist and Senior Vice President of the Federal Civilian Programs Division  at TMC Technologies, expressed her enthusiasm for the program’s impact. 

“I am deeply passionate about the SpaceTrek Program and the doors it opens for young women  across West Virginia,” said Denise Lindsey. “SpaceTrek gives students authentic, real‑world  experiences in space systems engineering and STEM which is exactly the kind of hands‑on  workforce development our state needs to prepare the next generation of talent. Seeing these young  women step into complex engineering challenges with confidence and curiosity is truly inspiring. I’m  incredibly proud that TMC Technologies is helping lead this effort and excited to be part of a program  that is transforming futures.” 

Reflecting on the growing collaboration between TMC Technologies and West Virginia Wesleyan  College, President and CEO Jeff Edgell expressed his pride in supporting the program’s continued  growth. 

“As a proud alumnus of West Virginia Wesleyan College, I am especially excited to see the West  Virginia SpaceTrek Program expand to my alma mater,” said Jeff Edgell, President and CEO of TMC  Technologies. “This partnership brings together TMC’s commitment to advancing aerospace  innovation and workforce development with a university that helped shape my own career. Supporting  young women as they explore space systems engineering is not only vital for our industry’s future, it  reflects the values of opportunity, curiosity, and excellence that define both TMC and West Virginia  Wesleyan College. We’re honored to help support this next chapter of SpaceTrek in West Virginia.” 

The West Virginia Public Education Collaborative, committed to elevating STEM education statewide,  plays a central role in student outreach and engagement through the STEAM Technical Assistance  Center, which helps West Virginia educators integrate hands-on STEAM activities into their  classrooms. 

“The SpaceTrek program perfectly aligns with our mission to advance education in West Virginia from  early childhood through higher education,” said Donna Peduto, Executive Director of the West  Virginia Public Education Collaborative. 

(more)

Program Dates: July 12–25, 2026 

• Capacity: 24 students 
• Location: West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon, WV 
• Residential Housing: On-campus residential facilities 
• Participant Fee: $1,000 (Scholarships and financial aid available) 

Application Timeline 

• Application Deadline: May 11, 2026 
• Acceptance Notifications: May 18, 2026 
• Acceptance RSVP Deadline: May 25, 2026 

For more information, please contact John Dahlia at TMC Technologies at (304) 276-3161 or by  email at john.dahlia@tmctechnologies.com. 

### 

About SpaceTrek 

SpaceTrek, launched by Morehead State University’s Space Science Center, is a premier educational  initiative integrating classroom learning with real-world aerospace and satellite technology applications. The program has a proven track record of inspiring young minds, fostering innovation,  and driving economic impact in the Appalachian region. 

About TMC Technologies 

TMC is a leading innovator in advanced technology solutions, recognized as one of the best to  partner with, not just in West Virginia but nationwide. TMC is not just a technology company; we’re a  team of visionaries, engineers, and problem-solvers driven by a common goal: to shape a brighter  future. Our diverse expertise spans various domains, including artificial intelligence, SAFe/Agile, and  DevSecOps software development, cybersecurity, mission assurance, full lifecycle development,  modeling and simulation, digital twin technology, cloud computing, and project management. This  collective proficiency enables us to provide comprehensive, tailored solutions that cater to the unique  needs of our customers. 

About West Virginia Wesleyan College 

West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences  college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan  is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate  programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22  NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations.  Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the  Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. 

About West Virginia Public Education Collaborative 

The West Virginia Public Education Collaborative (WVPEC) is committed to advancing public schools  in West Virginia from early childhood through higher education. By engaging key local stakeholders  and national experts through outreach and innovative initiatives, WVPEC partner-members aim to  identify West Virginia schools’ most pressing educational needs, remove barriers to student success,  and positively impact the educational system and economy of the state.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) will receive $2.583 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funds from the United States Department of Education through the office of United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). The funding will support critical improvements to heating, ventilation, and air cooling (HVAC) systems in facilities across campus. 

“We’re incredibly grateful to Senator Capito for her work on behalf of our state and her continued support of West Virginia Wesleyan College,” President James Moore said.  “This funding will allow the College to make substantial investments to improve or replace obsolete HVAC systems – some of which are more than 60 years old. These critical investments in WVWC’s future would not be possible without Senator Capito’s support, and will strengthen our campus infrastructure for decades to come.” 

The funding will support upgrades or replacements of boilers, chillers, and related HVAC equipment for up to 10 campus buildings. Many of the current systems have exceeded their useful life, having operated for 40, 50, and in some cases 60 years. These aging units are increasingly inefficient and costly to maintain. The planned improvements will enhance energy efficiency while improving the health, safety and comfort of students, faculty, staff  and visitors throughout the campus community. 

U.S. Sen. Capito added, “West Virginia Wesleyan plays an important role in educating and preparing the next generation of leaders in our state, and it’s important that their students and faculty can rely on the facilities in which they learn and work. Replacing these outdated systems will allow the College to invest in its students and strengthen the infrastructure of the campus for future generations. As the chairman of the Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, I was proud to help secure this allocation that will have many benefits for Wesleyan for years to come.”

WVWC will coordinate with the U.S. Department of Education to access the secured funding and plans to make these upgrades within 12 months of availability. 

 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) will receive $2.583 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funds from the United States Department of Education through the office of United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). The funding will support critical improvements to heating, ventilation, and air cooling (HVAC) systems in facilities across campus.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Senator Capito for her work on behalf of our state and her continued support of West Virginia Wesleyan College,” President James Moore said.  “This funding will allow the College to make substantial investments to improve or replace obsolete HVAC systems – some of which are more than 60 years old. These critical investments in WVWC’s future would not be possible without Senator Capito’s support, and will strengthen our campus infrastructure for decades to come.” 

The funding will support upgrades or replacements of boilers, chillers, and related HVAC equipment for up to 10 campus buildings. Many of the current systems have exceeded their useful life, having operated for 40, 50, and in some cases 60 years. These aging units are increasingly inefficient and costly to maintain. The planned improvements will enhance energy efficiency while improving the health, safety and comfort of students, faculty, staff  and visitors throughout the campus community. 

U.S. Sen. Capito added, “West Virginia Wesleyan plays an important role in educating and preparing the next generation of leaders in our state, and it’s important that their students and faculty can rely on the facilities in which they learn and work. Replacing these outdated systems will allow the College to invest in its students and strengthen the infrastructure of the campus for future generations. As the chairman of the Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee, I was proud to help secure this allocation that will have many benefits for Wesleyan for years to come.”

WVWC will coordinate with the U.S. Department of Education to access the secured funding and plans to make these upgrades within 12 months of availability. 

 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — Students at West Virginia Wesleyan College spread Valentine’s Day greetings within the region as part of a card-making project that generated over 500 cards.

In 2025, Matthew Hatfield ‘28, of Oceana, West Virginia, and a WVWC Service Scholar, organized a Valentine’s Day project as part of his community service and decided this year to ask his sophomore class council to grow the project.

“As sophomore class president, I wanted our class to take on a project that would bring smiles to people all across this part of the state and help make a small difference,” he said.  This allowed us to not only bring college students together, but also middle school students in helping bring smiles to residents in nursing homes.”

Students at Robert L. Bland Middle School in Lewis County helped make cards along with WVWC students back on campus.

“This year, we had over 500 Valentine cards go out to seven nursing homes around this area: Serenity, Holbrook, St. Joes, Elkins Rehabilitation, Mountain Memories, Clarksburg Rehabilitation and Clarksburg VA Nursing Facility,” Hatfield added. “I did not think we were going to be able to do 500-plus cards, but so many people came together to make this possible. It is nice to know these cards did not just bring smiles to the residents in nursing homes, but seeing students laughing and smiling while being creative with their cards was very rewarding.”

I want to thank three of our class representatives, Alexis Dickenson ‘27, of Lewisburg, West Virginia; Lynzee Hague ‘28, of Yantis, Texas;  and Katie Shaw ‘28, of Charleston, West Virginia, for helping assure that all cards were filled out in time for Valentine’s Day,” he said. “Without their help, we would not have been able to reach all seven nursing homes. Another huge thank you to the West Virginia Wesleyan College Center for Community Engagement and Leadership Development for helping fund these cards so that this could be possible.” 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia —West Virginia Wesleyan College’s planetarium will host a free show as part of Black History Month, offering a unique perspective on space inside the Christopher Hall of Science.

On Friday, Feb. 13, at 7 p.m.  “The Stargazers of Africa” will be sponsored by WVWC’s SPACE Club and the Center for Cultural and International Affairs.  Seats are limited. 

Dr. Tracey Delaney, director of the planetarium, said, “We will watch the video, ‘The Stargazers of Africa.’ We will then tour the sky as it was during the Antebellum era, highlighting the stars and constellations that were used to navigate on the Underground Railroad.”

The 40-seat planetarium is located on the second floor of the Christopher Hall of Science and features a Digitarium Zeta digital projector that is capable of full-dome videos.

The projector was purchased with a gift from the Naylor Family Trust via the Community Trust Foundation.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia — West Virginia Wesleyan College welcomed its largest mid-year class of undergraduate students in the past 32 years for Spring 2026.

The most popular declared majors from the 62 new students include exercise science, business administration, psychology, accounting, computer science, sport business and biology. While pursuing their academic degrees, the students will also be participating in athletics, creative and performing arts, community service and more.

President James Moore said, “More and more, students and their parents are looking for a college that gives them the best experience possible for the best value possible. In some cases this means students are seeking to transfer from their first college of choice to their next college of choice. We’re honored that so many students who were searching for a new home found us, and we’re excited for them to earn their bachelor’s degrees at their new Home Among the Hills.”

The list includes student-athletes joining 10 different varsity teams, the largest cohort joining new head football coach Mike Kellar’s roster. Kellar was named as head football coach in November and immediately began recruiting for his program.

The class also includes the first pickleball recruit, Connor Waybright ‘29, of Charleston, West Virginia.  The College announced it would begin varsity pickleball in Fall 2026 and is the first college in West Virginia to offer scholarships.

Waybright said, “I came to WVWC looking for a place where I could challenge myself academically while being part of something new and meaningful. As a freshman biology major on the pre-medical track and a transfer from Michigan State University, I’m excited to be the first pickleball recruit and help build a brand-new team from the ground up. Pickleball has pushed me to compete, grow, and connect with others, and I’m thrilled to represent WVWC and be part of its future.”

Also included in the incoming class are creative artists, service scholars and esports athletes.

Andrew Bobby ‘29, of Frederick, Maryland, has already found a service site through the Center for Community Engagement and Leadership Development. Bobby, who aspires to be a DNR officer, is placed at the Buckhannon Police Department. 

Hannah Davis ‘29, of Elkins, West Virginia, is double-majoring in psychology and sociology with a minor in criminal justice, and is also a new music merit scholarship member of the marching and concert bands.

Of the new students, 29% are from West Virginia, while 71% represent 16 U.S. States or territories and six additional countries. 

States and territories represented include Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, Florida, New York, Texas, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Indiana, Alabama, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Tennessee and Puerto Rico. Students also arrived from Argentina, Canada, Germany, Dominican Republic, Spain and Turkey.

Ready to apply for Fall 2026? Head over to www.wvwc.edu/apply for more information. 

 

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for 135 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2026 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2026  Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan second in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and counseling; 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit wvwc.edu.