News Type: Faculty

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 –  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 – The West Virginia Wesleyan College School of Nursing honored 41 graduates recently in the Convocation Ceremony.

Guest speaker Dr. Thomas Smith ’84 recounted his nursing education at West Virginia Wesleyan College and his early years after graduation working in New York City.

“Healthcare nursing is not just a job,” he said. “It is a career that will be both challenging and rewarding. Always remember, once you have worked several years, there will be patients and there will be families who hold you in their hearts forever because you were kind. I want you to never forget that.

Smith reminded graduates that it’s OK to fail, to embrace the uncertainty and to keep their sense of humor. He encouraged them to network.

“Chase your passions, embrace the chaos and above all enjoy the ride,” he said. “Life is not a sprint; it’s a marathon.”

Noah Jordan ’25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, served as president of Student Nurses of Wesleyan.

“We did it,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of each and every one of you and can’t wait to see what the future holds. We’ve been through it all together, but we didn’t just make it through. We crushed it, came out smarter, stronger and ready to take on the world.”

He thanked professors and those in the audience for their support of the graduates.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Graduates included Emma Adcock ’25, of Plant City, Florida; Kaitlyn Barnette ’25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Zoe Casto ’25, of Fairmont, West Virginia; Talia Cooper ’25, of Beckley, West Virginia; Kadie Dunham ’25, of Grafton, West Virginia;  Baylee Estudillo ’25, of Mount Neb, West Virginia;  Abigail Fazzini ’25, of Clarksburg, West Virginia; Kenna Ferguson ’25, of Elkins, West Virginia; Courtney Fizer ’25, of Charleston, West Virginia; Leigha Hall ’25, of Uniontown, Ohio; Chloe Hamrick ’25, of Rainelle, West Virginia; Kimberly Howell ’25, of Chesapeake, West Virginia; Jordan; Hannah Lafferre ’25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Katelyn Martin ’25, of Hinton, West Virginia; Erin McClelland ’25, of Kingwood, West Virginia; Kylie Metz ’25, of Weston, West Virginia; Paige Miller ’25, of Butler, Pennsylvania; Jody Mullens ’25, of Sugar Grove, West Virginia;  Emma Pankiewicz ’25, of Muskego, Wisconsin; Ellie Pergolotti ’25, of Cromwell, Connecticut; Lillie Peters ’25, of Sutton, West Virginia; Megan Pritt ’25, of Mount Nebo, West Virginia, and Ariel Sayre ’25, of Reedsville, West Virginia.

Those earning their Master of Science in Nursing in December 2024 but recognized in May were Lauren Casto, MSN, PMH ‘24; Loan Chau, MSN, FNP ‘24, of Worcester, Massachusetts; Aston Crosten, MSN, FNP ‘24, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Kelsey Dean, MSN, FNP ‘24, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Dawna Hardway, MSN, FNP ’24; Megan Kister, MSN, PMH ’24; Victoria Klinger, MSN, FNP ’24, of Coalton, West Virginia; Elizabeth Sendling, MSN, FNP ’24, of Coalton, West Virginia; and Chance Walther, MSN, FNP ’24, of Green Bank, West Virginia.

May 2025 MSN and DNP Graduates were Sara Beth Chipps, MSN, FNP ’25, of Bridgeport, West Virginia; Valerie Jordan, MSN, Leadership ’25, of Buckhannon; Crystal Lough, MSN, FNP ’25, of Weston, West Virginia; Sydney Maxwell, MSN, FNP ’25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Holly Revling, MSN, FNP’ 25, of Ellamore, West Virginia; Paige Tusing, MSN, FNP ’25, of Belington, West Virginia, and Ann Whitehair, DNP ’25, of Grafton, West Virginia.

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.

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – Nearly 200 West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates walked in the 134th Commencement held in Wesley Chapel Saturday representing 39 bachelor’s degree programs, four master’s programs and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) gave the commencement address and was presented the prestigious Rhododendron Award by Dr. James Moore, the College’s 20th President.

Capito encouraged participants to make the most of their experiences and to look up and be present in the moment versus spending so much time on their cell phones. 

“Go out, explore, but remember to look up,” Capito said. “When the time comes, just know that these country roads will welcome you home.”

“I encourage you to build a life here in West Virginia. No matter where you come from, no matter where your personal history is, you are all West Virginians now. I hope you will love the state and have come to love the state like we all do.” 

U.S. Senator Capito was presented with West Virginia Wesleyan College’s Rhododendron Award, a prestigious recognition provided by the College to individuals who have brought distinction and honor to their state or have offered exemplary acts of leadership on behalf of the College. Capito is only the 16th individual to receive the Rhododendron Award since its inception in 1967.

President James Moore said, “On behalf of the graduating class, faculty, staff and the entire West Virginia Wesleyan College Community, we extend our gratitude to Senator Capito for joining with us to celebrate our graduates and providing the 134th Commencement Address. Her words of encouragement, hope and resiliency are inspirational and have made this commencement truely memorable. We appreciate the Senator’s friendship, her service to our state, the nation and her continued support of higher education.”  

WVWC Senior Class President Zoe Casto ‘25 announced that more than $2,000 had been raised for the senior class gift, adding to security cameras on campus

This year’s participants in commencement represented 22 states and eight countries. Fifty-nine percent of participants call the Mountain State home and hail from 34 different counties. Thirty percent received the West Virginia PROMISE scholarship and 17% are First Generation college students. Thirty-two percent participated on an NCAA athletic team. WVWC competes in the Mountain East Conference.

The most popular undergraduate degrees among the degrees conferred Saturday are nursing, business administration, biology, psychology and criminal justice.

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 – With the launch of the state’s first Certificate in Addiction Counseling,  West Virginia Wesleyan College has now hired a program coordinator who brings extensive education, background and knowledge in addiction certifications and clinical services.

Jon Dower, a native of Morgantown, West Virginia, completed a Master’s in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University. Mr. Dower is a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia and holds several addiction-related certifications, including advanced alcohol and drug counselor, clinical supervisor, substance abuse professional, and intervention professional. Jon is the Executive Director for WVSL Solutions, a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides recovery housing across West Virginia, peer recovery support services, supportive employment, and clinical services as a licensed behavioral health organization.

At the undergraduate and graduate levels, Dower has taught in academic settings, including with the College of Applied Human Sciences at West Virginia University. He serves on several SUD-related boards of directors, including the WV First Foundation, and is the West Virginia Association of Addiction and Prevention Professionals (WVAAPP) president.

Dr. Jen Randall Reyes, Director of the School of Counseling and Psychology, said, “We are thrilled to have Jon join our team! His expertise in the treatment of co-occurring substance use disorders will support us in the creation of exceptional programming for behavioral healthcare practitioners. The fact that Jon also understands the multifaceted nature of addiction counseling work made him the ideal candidate for this role. We are in total alignment on creating a program that brings the tradition of servant leadership which Wesleyan has cultivated for 135 years into the realm of addiction work. I am grateful to Drs. Lynn Linder, Provost, and Chris Schimmel, Associate Provost, for supporting this vital next step in our Counseling Program’s growth.”

Dower added, “I am a third-generation West Virginian who has witnessed the impact of addiction across our state. From a public health and economic perspective, addiction touches all West Virginians. Joining an institution with deep historical roots and traditions willing to meet our state’s needs is an honor, a privilege, and, quite frankly, a no-brainer. Wesleyan is leading the way by bringing a program unlike any other in the state, a state impacted by substance use at higher rates than anywhere else in the country. My goal with this program is simple: create a legacy of well-trained clinicians preventing and treating substance-related issues, ensuring a better West Virginia. If someone has a heart attack, we send them to a cardiologist, not a podiatrist. If your loved one is experiencing substance use disorder in West Virginia, I want them sent to the best treatment providers possible. Wesleyan is creating that opportunity due to the incredible leadership of President Moore. This program will change lives and our state for the better. Is there a better purpose in life than that?”

To learn more about the Certificate in Addiction Counseling, visit https://www.wvwc.edu/counseling-program/ 

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – The West Virginia Wesleyan College Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) conducted its 61st annual induction on March 27, 2024, in the Meditation Chapel.  The circle inducted four graduate students, four seniors, four juniors, 10 sophomores, two staff members, and two faculty.

The Wesleyan Circle of ODK was established in 1963 and has inducted over 1,100 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, Laura Adams, South Charleston, West Virginia; Johnnie-Jo Hovis, Buckhannon, West Virginia; Judith Rose, Morgantown, West Virginia; and Ann Marie Whitehair, Grafton, West Virginia.  Seniors included Samantha Carlin, Sarasota, Florida; Zoe Casto, Fairmont, West Virginia; Kadie Dunham, Grafton, West Virginia; and Megan Pritt, Mt. Nebo, West Virginia.  Juniors included Savannah Herrod, Clarksburg, West Virginia; Edward Marks, Wellsburg, West Virginia; Sydney Vilain, Clarksburg, West Virginia; Carly Rae Wolfgang, Leesburg, Virginia.  Sophomores inducted included Madelyn Armstrong, Bridgeport, West Virginia; Cullen Cairns, Riverview FL; Tobias Fleece, Bridgeport, West Virginia; Laura Gatewood, Huntington, West Virginia; Kostadena Hartley, Buckhannon, West Virginia; Leah Ireland, Maitland, Florida; Zoe Jarvis, Big Chimney, West Virginia; Renae Kennison, Rainelle, West Virginia; Kylah Lockriddge, McGraws, West Virginia; and Breanne Waldron, Fairmont, West Virginia. 

Also inducted were Dr. Rae Emrick, vice president for athletics, Alexis de Coning, assistant professor of communications, Jonathan Acord, dean of the chapel, and Colby Wamsley, assistant director of campus life.

Participating in the ceremony were Dr. Thomas Smith, faculty advisor, Alisa Lively, dean of students and circle advisor, and Jessica Wagner, director for community engagement and circle staff.  Officers participating included Srikiran Nandigama, 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 Srikiran Nandigama, president, Faith Yoho, vice-president, and Sydney Vilain, 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.

 

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – The West Virginia Wesleyan College Departments of Theatre & Dance presents Oscar Wilde’s comedy, “The Importance of Being Earnest.” This production contains a unique twist to Wilde’s work, featuring both a dressed-down British cast and an American Southern cast set in the 1960s. Performances run April 10 at 7:30 p.m., April 11 at 7:30 p.m., and April 12 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The British cast will be performing April 10 at 7:30 p.m. and April 12 at 2 p.m., while the Southern cast will be performing April 11 at 7:30 p.m. and April 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available at the door one hour prior to curtain and are $10 for general admission, $5 for seniors, students, or anyone with a WVWC ID.  

 

Known for its sharp social commentary and delightful absurdities, “The Importance of Being Earnest” has captivated audiences for over a century. Set in Victorian England, the play follows the escapades of two young men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who lead double lives to avoid societal pressures. Their comical deceptions set off a chain of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements, culminating in Wilde’s signature humorous and revealing conclusion. 

This production creatively blends Wilde’s witty English satire with the warmth and charm of Southern culture. Directed by Thomas Schoffler, chair of the WVWC Department of Theatre and Dance, this reimagining infuses the traditional British setting of the play with the distinctive accent, style, and humor of the American South. A talented British cast brings Oscar Wilde’s razor-sharp dialogue to life, while Southern elements provide a unique contrast, amplifying the comedy and ensuring a completely original theater experience. 

Wesleyan’s cast includes junior musical theatre/media communication major Ashton Nardella ‘26, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, as Southern Algernon Moncrieff and freshman musical theatre major John Spellman ‘28, of Morgantown, West Virginia, as British Algernon Moncrieff, sophomore acting/directing major Eli Dickey ‘27 of Chloe, West Virginia, as southern Jack Worthing, sophomore English major Amelia Hughes ‘27, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, as British Jack Worthing, senior acting and directing major Ellery Brown ’25 of Bay City, Michigan as Southern Gwendolen Fairfax, senior musical theater major Sydney Stewart ‘25,  of Barboursville, West Virginia, as British Gwendolen Fairfax, sophomore biology (pre-med) major Kaylie (Kai) Toler ‘27, of Harts, West Virginia, as Southern Cecily Cardew, freshman acting/directing major Leigh Rice ‘28, of Philippi, West Virginia, as British Cecily Cardew, Buckhannon resident Jett Eric as Southern Lady Bracknell,  Assistant Professor of Communication Dr. Lexi de Coning from South Africa as British Lady Bracknell, junior musical theater/communications double-major Julius Pretlow ‘26, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as Southern Reverend Chasuble, freshman acting/directing major Salem Bradshaw ‘28 of Nicholas County, West Virginia, as British Reverend Chasuble, Senior English major Roxie Underwood 25’, as Southern Miss Prism, sophomore acting/directing Major Rhyan Sebring ‘27 of Caldwell, Ohio, as British Miss Prism, freshman pre-drama therapy major Payton Hill ‘28, of Hedgesville, West Virginia, as Southern Merriman and Lane, and  interim Director of Technical Theater Justin Grow as British Merriman and Lane. 

 

The show features designs by two professional guest artists including costumes by Pittsburgh-based designer Jacob Currence and scenic designs by former Wesleyan technical director Keith Saine. The production’s stage manager is sophomore arts administration major Tina Green ‘27, of Huntington, West Virginia, and Assistant Stage Manager Payton Hill ‘28, of Hedgesville, West Virginia. Additional crew includes properties design by senior psychology major Cam McGriff ‘25, of Wilmington, Deleware, sound design by sophomore acting/directing major Rhyan Sebring ‘27, of Caldwell, Ohio, with lighting design by senior technical theater major Jay Coping-Smith ‘25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and freshman musical theater Major Adrian Legg ‘28, of Charleston, West Virginia, with senior musical theatre major Ben Long ‘25 of Buckhannon, West Virginia, serving as assistant director. 

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 Black Student Union and Thomas H. Albinson II School of Business are hosting a unique event Friday to bring entrepreneurs and business professionals together for a day of networking and learning with students. 

Laurie Goux, director of the Center for Cultural and International Affairs, said this expo has three goals.

“First,  to create a directory of black-owned businesses in West Virginia, across the United States and globally,” she continued. “The second goal is to inspire an entrepreneurial mindset in students pursuing business careers. Third, to educate all business students on issues that affect minority-owned businesses.” 

All events will be held in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts and are open to the public.

The winner of the business entrepreneur contest will be announced. Over the past week, WVWC students have had the opportunity to submit their idea for a business and the chance to win $500 toward their project. 

Lunch and Learn at noon will be served by Aladdin Catering. Student vendors will set up from noon-1 p.m.  Sample “Gabby Bakes” sweet potato pie, Paula Kaufman, poet, visual artist, and educator will share her artwork and present on African American Foodways. 

From 1 to 3 p.m., there will be a discussion panel organized by the Thomas H. Albinson II School of Business. Beginning at 3 p.m., there will be various business professionals sharing about an “Entrepreneurial Mindset” via Zoom. An in-person book club discussion panel will be held from 4-5 p.m. with Shawn Rochester, author of The Black Tax, who will join by Zoom. 

The event will culminate from 5-6 p.m., with a presentation on House music and entertainment brought by WVWC students.

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.