News Type: Campus

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia  –  Creating another avenue for working professionals to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing, West Virginia Wesleyan College School of Nursing has launched a new LPN to BSN Pathway that will see students earn their degree through hybrid online courses and weekend clinical rotations.

The program recently received final approval from the West Virginia Board of Nursing and is ready to begin accepting its first cohort of up to 24 students, which would begin in August 2025.

Director of the WVWC School of Nursing Dr. Kimberly White, Phd, MSN, RN, said, “WVWC School of Nursing is excited to bring this pathway to BSN nursing to our local community.  This is a vital step toward strengthening our local health care system. It provides licensed practical nurses (LPNs) with a flexible and accessible pathway to advance their education and become registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This not only helps address the growing nursing shortage but also improves the quality of care patients receive by equipping nurses with enhanced clinical skills and leadership training.

“The hybrid format, which combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, makes it easier for working professionals to continue their education without sacrificing their current employment. By investing in the development of local talent, the program also supports economic growth and ensures that health care providers better reflect and understand the unique needs of the community they serve.”

Students will begin the program at WVWC, taking classes online but having one weekend a month on campus for testing, skills, and simulation labs. They will then move to Battlers Knob in Phillipi for their one-weekend per month on campus and will have one to two weekends of clinical rotations per month depending on the number of clinical courses they are enrolled in. The flexibility of the program provides for completion in two years if full-time or three years if part-time.

For more information, visit www.wvwc.edu/nursing. 

 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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 –  Nursing runs in the family, and now West Virginia Wesleyan College degrees do, too.

During Commencement Weekend, visiting assistant professor Valerie Jordan M’25 pinned her son Noah Jordan ’25 in the Nursing Convocation and presented him with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing diploma the next day. She also participated in both ceremonies as a graduate with her MSN in Nursing Leadership.

Valerie began teaching at WVWC in 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and more than 20 years of experience in psychiatric mental health, but decided to pursue graduate studies.

“I started taking one class at a time, one or two a semester, working towards my Master’s in Nursing Leadership, and I’m hopefully getting my doctorate next year in leadership,” she said. “To continue working here at Wesleyan, which I love, I wanted to further my education, and I like learning.”

For Noah, choosing nursing follows a family tradition.

“My great-grandma was a nurse, my grandma was a nurse, and my mom was a nurse, and she was my biggest inspiration,” he said. “She loves helping people, which made me want to be like her. She is always kindhearted and loves caring for people. I hope I can be half the nurse she is one day.”

At WVWC, Noah found the School of Nursing Program nurturing and encouraging.

“It’s very family-oriented here,” he said. “They care for all their students, and they are willing to work with you if you are having life troubles or need time on any assignments. They care for your success and want you to succeed in the program. They want you to succeed and do well.”

Regarding school, Noah had family support at Middleton Hall and home through his mom.

“I leaned on her the most probably — she has been my biggest support system throughout everything,” he said. “She has helped me study. She has given me tips on how to be successful.”

Nursing Convocation and Commencement were extra special with the two graduates.

Valerie added, “I was just so proud of him and his accomplishments, and I was so honored that they let me give him a diploma. Our administration and faculty are wonderful to work with. That day was bittersweet -we got to see our family and share it.”

Noah will be working on the cardiac stepdown unit at Ruby Memorial Hospital, but like his mom, is also planning to pursue graduate education. He will apply to WVWC for his psychiatric nursing practitioner degree in partnership with Shenandoah University.

Having struggled with mental health issues, Noah said it is something close to his heart as he looked at careers in nursing.

“I feel like we need more people here for those who are mentally ill and unable to take care of themselves,” he said

Valerie has transformed her career from working in psychiatric nursing to teaching the next generation of nurses.

“My mom was a nurse and an educator, and I had taught 14 years in CNA program classes,” she said.

Coming to WVWC has expanded those opportunities as she is left with her major project to finish her doctorate.

“I love the students,” she said. “We have an excellent group of students who come through Wesleyan. They try very hard and are very respectful. Two who graduated were in my first freshman class.”

WVWC offers flexible degrees and stepping stones to further nursing education, including launching a new LPN to BSN pathway and several master’s and doctoral programs.

“The FNP program is probably one of the most popular,” she said. “We have had a 100 percent pass rate for the last several years.”

With the early assurance program, students can begin taking graduate classes going into their senior year, allowing them to complete some courses while earning their BSN.

Valerie said, “Wesleyan is a great place – the whole campus. All of it is very family-oriented, like Noah said. Everybody is there to help each other. You can always reach out. Our students work well together, peer to peer and student to faculty.”

Recently, students took care of a paraplegic patient who was so appreciative that his hygiene needs were met.

“Two students wrote in their reflection that they would never forget that experience,” she said. “I will never forget that experience.”

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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  – Big things come in small packages, and at 4 feet tall, Megan Lively packed a lot of kindness into her years before passing away in 2019.

Megan’s story and her adventures at West Virginia Wesleyan College and through Upshur County Special Olympics are the subject of a book written by her mother, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Alisa Mauk Lively.

Writing “It’s the Small Things that Count” is something Lively wanted to do to help with closure and tell Megan’s story to a larger audience.

“No matter what obstacles you face medically in life or developmentally, you can always make a difference,” she said. “I wanted other young children to understand they can impact anyone, no matter how small the gesture.”

Megan was born with ring chromosome 18 – a condition that affected her physical development but never her joy, strength, or generosity.

Through the book, Lively also wants children to understand people who are differently abled and to embrace and include them.

The book is published through Silent Books Publishing, owned by WVWC alum Angel King Wilson ‘13 and illustrated by Ade Chintya.

Lively said Chintya captured Megan right off the bat from her life on campus and with Special Olympics to her dream of being a princess.

Readers will recognize Megan, the scenes around WVWC, and some special people like the late Tobi Carter ‘19, who Megan considered one of her best friends.

“Without a doubt, former students will recall the chipper and feisty princess who was always on campus,” Lively said. “She was immersed in WVWC from 1987-2019.”

Megan spent much time on campus at events, making crafts and using the counter to keep track of the number of students entering the dining hall for events.

“She loved helping with the housing lottery,” she said. “She just loved being here. She loved Aladdin. She made bracelets for many of the staff. Everybody had crafts.”

The title came from Megan.

“I wanted it to reflect something about being kind or small gestures,” she said. “Not only is it small as in small gestures, but it is small because she was 4 feet tall.”

Proceeds from the book’s sale go to Upshur County Special Olympics, where Megan competed for many years, and Lively serves as executive director.

The Foundation for Better Schools purchased five signed copies for each elementary School for grades one through five.

Lively has been able to read the book to some classes already and said holding the finished book for the first time was a great feeling.

“It was undeniably satisfying, and it just makes me feel like she is still here,” Lively said.

Purchase the book here. It is also available through Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Books A Million.

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 – Receiving several awards including Outstanding Senior, West Virginia Wesleyan College graduate Katie Morgan ’25 excelled in academics and service.  

At the Academic and Leadership Awards Ceremony, Morgan also received the Wesleyan Values Award, the Practicing Restorative Justice Award, the Outstanding Senior in Psychology Award, and the Brad Long Peace Fund Award. On Commencement Day, Morgan graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. 

She did all this while navigating the campus, her studies, and service as a blind person.

Morgan is from Monongah, West Virginia, a community outside Fairmont about an hour’s drive from WVWC.

“I chose Wesleyan because I knew it was a small school and a small campus, which would mean it was easy for me to navigate as a totally blind person,” she said. “It was emphasized at Wesleyan that you would get one-on-one attention from your professors and they would be able to help you.”

Going away to college wasn’t without concerns for Morgan.

“I had heard stories from other blind people who went to colleges, about how they weren’t accommodated or that professors wouldn’t give them what they needed,” she said. “I am also a first-generation student. Neither of my parents graduated from college. Would I even be able to do the work? Compounding that, as a blind person, I definitely had a lot of concerns about how well I would be able to do in that environment.” 

WVWC has The Learning Center – something Morgan used throughout her time at WVWC, including its testing lab.

“For my first year, I would meet once a week with my advisor at The Learning Center, Linda Selan,” Morgan said. “We would check in on how I was handling the coursework, if I needed any accommodations. She was really good about checking in with me and making sure I had everything I needed. Everyone there was always kind and willing to hear my questions, always willing to help in whatever way I needed.” 

“They also provided people to walk to my classes with me in the beginning, so I would know where they were located and I could later find them independently,” she said.

“Every professor I ever had was very understanding and accommodating,” she said. “If I needed a test in an electronic format or if I needed to do an assignment in a different format, or email a paper instead of printing it, they would work with me.”

Morgan also became involved on campus, giving back to the community that welcomed her.

“The first organization I joined was Intervarsity Christian Fellowship,” she said. “Joining that organization really gave me the ability to lead Bible studies and welcome new students, giving them a safe space to come.

“I joined WE LEAD my junior year because they offered areas of service I could focus on,” she said. “My first semester with them I was on the youth security team focusing on children. Senior year, I switched to being involved with the human rights team. We provided educational materials on violations of human rights and spreading awareness about where human rights are lacking.”

“As a senior, I interned with the Center for Restorative Justice. I facilitated community-based conversations on the Wesleyan campus about different topics, providing people a safe space for people to have discussions. I also volunteered at Resilience Collaborative in Clarksburg with people who are unhoused, helping to cook and serve meals, having conversations, and learning more about their struggles.” 

Morgan is taking a gap year to gain work experience before entering West Virginia University’s Master of Science in Counseling with a goal to become a certified therapist. She feels her studies and experiences at WVWC will make these next steps possible. 

“Academically, I’ve learned a lot,” she said. “I had really awesome professors who took the time to teach and engage with students. The opportunities for leadership, particularly with WE LEAD and the Center for Restorative Justice, really feel like it has prepped me to be a therapist. It taught me to provide a positive space for other people and how to engage with other people and their life experiences, and what we can do to help. For any work team I am going to be part of in the future, the CCE provided really good opportunities for leadership and being in a team setting.” 

As she looks back on her experiences at WVWC, Morgan remembers the beginning of her first year.

“It was very overwhelming and also very positive,” she said. “I really got there and didn’t know if I would be able to succeed. I knew all throughout high school that I wanted to be a therapist. I had this career goal and didn’t really know what it would take or how I would get there.”

The answer proved to be one day at a time, according to Morgan.

“I thought every day something would happen and it would be too challenging, but one day at a time, I made it. I was surrounded by kindness. I definitely would not have made it without the support of those people and making those connections to people I knew would be willing to help me.”

Her advice to others?

“Don’t be afraid to do it,” she said. “Don’t be afraid of the challenge. You gain so many skills, experiences, and so much knowledge you can apply to any part of your life. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Try to find a community that you fit into. Having a sense of community is really helpful with the isolation.”

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 is welcoming back two accomplished music alumni to lead its marching and jazz programs. Eliza Taylor ‘19 will be Director of Athletic Bands, and Adam Loudin ‘07 will be Assistant Professor of Music/Director of Jazz Ensembles.

The hires come as the College has continued to put a strong emphasis on the arts. Including the incoming Class of 2029, WVWC has welcomed over 150 creative arts to campus in the last three classes. Later this month, WVWC will welcome high school students to the West Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts for the second summer in a row and will also host in 2026. The College has hosted GSA for two of the last three cycles. 

Taylor holds a Bachelor of Music Education from West Virginia Wesleyan College, and a Master of Music in flute performance with graduate certificates in instrumental conducting and music administration from The Ohio University School of Music. She is a member of Women Band Directors International, National Association for Music Education, West Virginia Music Educators Association, West Virginia Bandmasters, Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity and Pi Kappa Lambda honor society for music.

A formidable director and conductor, Taylor has directed bands at the middle school and high school level in North Central West Virginia. Her ensembles have most frequently achieved Superior “I” ratings and have also premiered works at West Virginia ratings festivals. As a conductor, she is known for her expressive gestures and stylistic clarity. Eliza studied wind band conducting at Ohio University under Dr. William Talley. 

“I have a firm belief that a school’s marching band is the public face of the College as well as an ambassador for the entire community. I am honored to be returning to my Alma Mater to support their efforts and to grow a program that means so much to me.” 

Taylor is primarily a flutist, but is also an accomplished conductor, singer, pianist, and trombonist. Well-versed in classical, jazz, and Latin styles, she has performed and collaborated with a variety of individuals and ensembles. 

As a WVWC student, Taylor was a member during the inaugural years of the Bobcat Marching Band, Concert Band, WVWC Big Band, choral ensembles and jazz combos. She was also the lead vocalist and flutist for the Afro-Cuban Ensemble and the assistant director of the Flute Ensemble during her time as a student. She received the Outstanding Music Department Senior Award and the Academic and Leadership Achievement Award, graduating magna cum laude. Eliza also has experience as a church musician and chorister. 

Taylor has studied flute with Dr. Keith Hanlon, Linda Wolfersheim, and Alison Brown Sincoff. She and her husband, Seth Blake ‘17, a fellow music educator, call Elkins home. 

Loudin is a dedicated music educator, conductor and performer with over 15 years of experience inspiring young musicians in West Virginia and beyond. He earned his Bachelor’s in Music Education from WVWC and a master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where he studied trumpet with Joey Tartell and served as a graduate assistant to renowned jazz educator David Baker.

 Under his leadership at Robert L. Bland Middle School in Weston, both band and choir ensembles were repeatedly recognized as WVMEA State Middle School Honor Ensembles. His commitment to excellence in music education earned him the title of Teacher of the Year twice during his 15-year tenure in Lewis County. In 2016, Adam was honored with the West Virginia Wesleyan College Young Alumni Achievement Award.

Loudin said, “I am beyond thrilled to be joining the music faculty at WVWC.  The school, its professors, and its tradition of valuing the arts were integral to my development as a young jazz musician, and I consider the opportunity to become a part of the WVWC campus community as a professor a true honor and privilege.”

 In addition to his work in public education, Loudin served as artistic director of the Chanticleer Children’s Chorus of West Virginia in 2015. He also contributed to higher education as an adjunct professor at WVWC for over a decade, where he taught secondary music education methods, brass methods, and applied lessons. A sought-after clinician, Adam has conducted honor choirs and bands throughout the state.

 As a performer, Loudin has remained active in both jazz and classical music. He has played jazz extensively throughout West Virginia and surrounding states and spent more than 10 years as a member of the West Virginia Brass Quintet.

 In 2024, Loudin was honored nationally by School Band and Orchestra Plus (SBO+) magazine as one of the “50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference,” highlighting his significant contributions to music education. 

Loudin and his wife, Katie ‘07,—a fellow WVWC graduate, former Director of Community Engagement for WVWC, and current Director of Strategic Development for the WV Community Development Hub—live in Buckhannon with their two sons, Thomas and Elliot, who share their parents’ love for music.

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 West Virginia Wesleyan College Class of 2025 honored a faculty member who teaches some of the most difficult classes while fostering an environment where students can succeed.

Dr. Kelly Terhune ’03, MBA ‘05, Director and Assistant Professor for the Thomas Albinson School of Business, received the Distinguished Faculty Award from Senior Class President Zoë Casto during WVWC’s 134th Commencement.
“Thirty-five years ago, the WVWC Class of 1990 established an award to recognize a member of Wesleyan’s faculty for the quality of their contributions to the College and its students,” Casto said. “While she teaches some of the hardest classes, she takes the time to help students understand the concepts and creates an atmosphere to succeed.”

Terhune just completed her 18th year at WVWC. She earned her undergrade degree in mathematics and health promotion/fitness management and her MBA from WVWC before later pursuing a Masters in Economics from WVU in 2012.

“I have always taught Statistics for Business and Economics, but have also taught all but two economics courses through my 18 years here,” she said. “It is hard for me to identify my favorite classes to teach, but I can say  I like to teach mathy things and microeconomic things, but at the end of the day I really just love teaching.”

“I am humbled and honored to be chosen by the senior class to receive this award, although I am shocked that I won.   I teach classes that challenge most students, but I try to be very available to them so they can ask questions.  At the end of the day, I am glad they recognize this and I hope they know how much I truly appreciate the recognition!”

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 – Join the West Virginia Wesleyan College Planetarium for a series of monthly shows that take attendees on a journey through space and a tour of the night sky from campus afterwards.

The first show will be  Saturday, June 7 at 8 p.m. with “Messengers of Time and Space” about using various telescopes to track astronomical events, such as star explosions and collisions, over short periods of time like hours and days.

After the video, attendees will take a tour of the night sky. The show will last about 1 hour with telescope observing of the moon and Mars afterwards, weather permitting.

The planetarium is on the second floor of Christopher Hall.  Seating is first-come, first-serve.  Doors open a half hour before the show.  Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for students and seniors, and free for those under 18.  The ticket sales for the public shows go entirely towards facility maintenance and video costs to provide free shows for school and kids’ groups.

The planetarium will open for public shows at 8 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month.  Saturday, July 5 will be Einstein’s Gravity Playlist and Saturday, Aug. 2 will be Max Goes to the Moon.

The 40-seat Planetarium was a key part of the design of the Christopher Hall of Science and was completed in December 1968. Originally, it had a state-of-the-art Spitz A3P prime projector and was intended for both teaching and public shows.  

“In the fall of 2017, with a generous donation from the Naylor Family Trust Fund, we upgraded to a fully digital projection system that now allows us to fly up close to planets and display beautiful images of deep sky objects,” said Dr. Tracey DeLaney, associate professor and WVWC Planetarium director. “Of llate we have only been using the planetarium for teaching and school shows, but we are now excited to finally reopen for public shows.”

 

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 – Join the West Virginia Wesleyan College Planetarium for a series of monthly shows that take attendees on a journey through space and a tour of the night sky from campus afterwards.

The first show will be  Saturday, June 7 at 8 p.m. with “Messengers of Time and Space” about using various telescopes to track astronomical events, such as star explosions and collisions, over short periods of time like hours and days.

After the video, attendees will take a tour of the night sky. The show will last about 1 hour with telescope observing of the moon and Mars afterwards, weather permitting.

The planetarium is on the second floor of Christopher Hall.  Seating is first-come, first-serve.  Doors open a half hour before the show.  Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for students and seniors, and free for those under 18.  The ticket sales for the public shows go entirely towards facility maintenance and video costs to provide free shows for school and kids’ groups.

The planetarium will open for public shows at 8 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month.  Saturday, July 5 will be Einstein’s Gravity Playlist and Saturday, Aug. 2 will be Max Goes to the Moon.

The 40-seat Planetarium was a key part of the design of the Christopher Hall of Science and was completed in December 1968. Originally, it had a state-of-the-art Spitz A3P prime projector and was intended for both teaching and public shows.  

“In the fall of 2017, with a generous donation from the Naylor Family Trust Fund, we upgraded to a fully digital projection system that now allows us to fly up close to planets and display beautiful images of deep sky objects,” said Dr. Tracey DeLaney, associate professor and WVWC Planetarium director. “Of llate we have only been using the planetarium for teaching and school shows, but we are now excited to finally reopen for public shows.”

 

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 has named Davin L. Seamon as General Counsel and Administrator for Strategic Initiatives.

“We are so excited that Davin has agreed to join our team at WVWC,” President James Moore said. “His experience in a variety of areas of legal practice, coupled with his deep connections to our broader community, make him the ideal person to lead our legal affairs efforts.”

A graduate of The George Washington University Law School, Seamon brings over 25 years of broad yet sophisticated experience in the legal field, including 19 years in the Business Department of Steptoe & Johnson PLLC in Bridgeport. Since leaving Steptoe & Johnson PLLC to found his own solo business practice, Ivory Legal PLLC, Seamon has served as a trusted legal advisor for a variety of clients in the higher education, medical, logistics and fulfillment industries, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, commercial transactions, and technology-focused contract negotiations. 

Seamon attended West Virginia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management.

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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  – For gifted students in grades 5-12, the Wesleyan Summer Gifted Program is an experience they will never forget. The only program of its kind in the state, this STEM program provides gifted students with the academic and social stimulation they need.

 Since its inception in 1983, the program has been held on the campus of West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, West Virginia.  The program offers advanced classes in physics, math, computer programming, environmental science, creative arts, and creative writing. These classes are all taught by college professors who delight in working with these young, gifted students.

Campers room in a dormitory, eat together in the cafeteria, attend classes, and are given the chance to participate in fun, exciting activities every day. These students are supervised by college-age counselors who serve as guides and mentors. Many participants have such a great time they return year after year. Some even go on to become counselors at the camp or students at Wesleyan.

Besides academics, the program offers the college’s extensive facilities for the students to use – swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, a walking trail, the library, music practice rooms, and outdoor rec equipment. Activities include movies, a planetarium show, guest speakers, games, and a talent show on the last night.  On the weekend they go downtown to experience a Festival Friday and visit local shops.

The program is directed by Dr. Tracey DeLaney, professor of physics at WVWC. “This program is a boon to kids who never really felt like they fit in anywhere,” says Dr. DeLaney. “We are proud to be able to support these students academically and provide them with the opportunity to be around others with similar abilities.”

To be eligible for the program, students in rising grades 5-12 must be identified as gifted through their school or through testing. This summer’s program runs from June 15 to 28 and is limited to 50 students. The program will be taking enrollments through June 7. 

Interested parents, students, or teachers can view our offerings, learn about the professors and courses, and enroll online at http://www.wvwc.edu/summergifted. For more information you can call Tracey DeLaney at 304-473-8330 or email us at sgp@wvwc.edu.

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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 West Virginia Wesleyan College Student Senate recognized a faculty and staff member who each go above and beyond in their respective roles.

Assistant Professor Dr. Alexis de Coning, a member of the Communications Department, is the student-elected Faculty Member of the Year. De Coning is known for her caring nature and vibrant, bubbly personality. She always puts students first, both in the classroom and through dedicated academic advising. Going above and beyond, De Coning teaches in First Year Experience, honors and throughout the Communications Department. In addition to teaching, De Coning serves on numerous faculty and senate committees and was recently in a production of “The Importance of Being Earnest” by the Department of Theatre and Dance. 

De Coning has been teaching at WVWC for three years.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by my students,” she said. “My teaching philosophy has always been one of community and collaboration with students, and I love learning alongside my students. Receiving this award is acknowledgement that our shared efforts to build a meaningful learning environment have made an impact.”

Amy Rogosky, laboratory manager in biology, is the student-elected Staff Member of the Year, who is always known for greeting others with a warm smile. Rogosky’s genuine care and outreach are truly felt by the students in the biology department. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student receives individual attention, whether in the lab or while serving as an adjunct in the classroom. Students and colleagues deeply appreciate Rogosky’s wit, wisdom and unwavering dedication.

She has been employed at WVWC for 13 years. 

“I am honored to receive this award,” Rogowsky said. “The fact that it is a student-elected award makes it even more meaningful.  The best parts of my day involve students – from encouraging them to discover the fascinating processes of life in the classroom to the memorable moments created while sharing chocolates and chatting about life in my office.  Wesleyan has the best students, and I am thankful that I can play a small part in their Wesleyan experience.”

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 more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2025 Best Colleges in the Mid-Atlantic Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan ninth 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 clinical mental health counseling; 20 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.