News Type: Student

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – Today, West Virginia Wesleyan College announces the launch of its new Physician Assistant (PA) Program, marking a significant stride in our ongoing commitment to healthcare education and workforce development, while filling a critical gap in rural healthcare delivery. 

The College has applied for Accreditation-Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Pending successful achievement of this status at the January 2028 ARC-PA meeting, West Virginia Wesleyan College anticipates welcoming its inaugural PA class in May 2028 to Battlers Knob in Philippi.

President Dr. James Moore said, “West Virginia Wesleyan College is excited and proud to make this announcement. As the region’s leader in care-centered healthcare education, we believe that it’s central to our mission to launch programs that will produce graduates who will improve the healthcare outcomes of West Virginians and Appalachians. We are grateful to our healthcare partners for their guidance and partnership in this exciting new program.”

There are currently hundreds of job openings for PAs in West Virginia, demonstrating the need for more graduates.

Entrance into Physician Assistant schools is highly competitive, and roughly one-fourth of applicants are accepted. There are five PA programs in the Mountain State, but none are located geographically between Charleston and Morgantown.   

Provost Dr. Lynn M. Linder said, “The physician assistant profession is essential to meeting the growing healthcare needs of West Virginia and the greater Appalachian region. By launching this program, we are preparing skilled, compassionate providers who will expand access to care, strengthen healthcare systems, and build healthier communities. This is not only an investment in our students, but a legacy that will shape lives and reaffirm West Virginia Wesleyan College’s leadership in healthcare education and workforce development.”

The PA Program at Wesleyan is designed to prepare compassionate, highly-skilled medical professionals through a blend of rigorous classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. 

Deanna Leach, DMSc, PA-C, has been hired as the program’s first director, bringing a clinical background as a physician assistant and serving as associate director of the previous program at the former Alderson Broaddus University. Most recently, Dr. Leach has served as assistant director of the PA program at West Liberty University.

On Sept. 10 at 3 p.m., WVWC will host an event at Battlers Knob in Philippi. The public is invited to attend to formally celebrate the announcement and partnerships.

Since the closure of Alderson Broaddus University, WVWC has partnered with Battlers Knob to plan and execute in-person programs and services. The first, an LPN to BSN Pathway, launched this fall and is at 100% capacity with a waiting list. Beginning in Spring 2026, the hybrid program will see students return to Battlers Knob for clinicals. 

Glen E. Combs, Ed.D. (HC), PA, is president of the Hu C. Myers Association and an alum of the ABU PA Program.

Combs added, “The establishment of a new program to educate future PAs is a monumental step forward for the health and well-being of our communities. It signifies a strong commitment by West Virginia Wesleyan to educate skilled medical practitioners, particularly in our state’s rural and underserved regions. By educating a new generation of compassionate and competent PAs, we are not only enriching our local workforce but also ensuring that more West Virginians have access to the quality medical care that they deserve. This new PA program will be a beacon of opportunity, fostering educational excellence and building a healthier future for all.”

Adding the Physician Assistant Program builds on West Virginia Wesleyan College’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of the greater Appalachian region through its BSN, Nursing Practitioner and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees and the more recent establishment of the Master of Arts in Counseling and Addiction Certificate. 

ABOUT WVWC’s APPLICATION FOR ACCREDITATION-PROVISIONAL
West Virginia Wesleyan College has applied for Accreditation-Provisional from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). West Virginia Wesleyan College anticipates matriculating its first class in May 2028, pending achieving Accreditation – Provisional status at the January 2028 ARC-PA meeting. Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students. If the West Virginia Wesleyan College Physician Assistant Program does not achieve Accreditation-Provisional status as planned, students will not matriculate and will receive a full refund of tuition and deposits. Please note that this does not include fees paid by applicants to the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).

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 Board of Trustees recently voted to extend the contract of President Dr. James Moore through June 30, 2032, a move that affirms the institution’s confidence in his leadership and vision for the College’s future.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce our unanimous decision to extend Dr. Moore’s contract through June 30, 2032,” said Kevin Spear, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. “This renewal reflects our deep confidence in Dr. Moore’s ability to continue to elevate our College, strengthen its academic programs, and further its ongoing mission of excellence in serving the needs of our region.”

Moore came to West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2006, serving as Director of Jazz Ensembles and Professor of Music. He then was appointed to Vice President of Academic Affairs/Dean of Faculty for five years. The board appointed Moore as interim president of West Virginia Wesleyan in 2022, making it official in 2023.

Since stepping into the presidency, Moore has continually underscored the role West Virginia Wesleyan College has to play in Appalachia by working to solve problems such as the demand for more clinical mental health counselors and health care professionals. 

Moore played a pivotal role in securing transformative partnerships and investments including the $1.2 million collaborative gift from Aetna Better Health of West Virginia and Community Care of West Virginia to launch the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

WVWC recently announced the establishment of a new LPN to RN pathway program utilizing the Battlers Knob campus in
Philippi. Students will start the mostly online program with in-person clinicals at WVWC their first semester and then transition to the Battler’s Knob campus for the remainder of the program. 

A partnership with Mon Health System/Vandalia Health guarantees scholarships and employment for WVWC nursing graduates. There has also been the expansion of local and regional collaborations with Upshur County Schools, Valley Health, Behavioral Health Associates, City of Buckhannon/Colonial Arts Center, and Notre Dame High School.

Total enrollment has grown by 10% since 2022, marking two consecutive years of increased enrollment and a projected continuation of that growth into Fall 2025. The most significant increase has come at the graduate level. Graduate program enrollment has increased by 40 percent since 2023 with the introduction of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, new addiction and recovery certificate, and executive (online) MBA programs. 

This fall, WVWC will welcome its first Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity students to campus.

Campus and facility enhancements have also flourished during Moore’s tenure. Thanks to generous donations from alumni, new multi-purpose stadium lighting at the Cebe Ross Field has been installed allowing the return of nighttime games and events at the stadium. Seating upgrades at Rockefeller Gymnasium will be complete in the 2025-2026 academic year. 

Renovations at McCuskey Hall and upgrades to the French A. See Dining Center, including new seating and flooring (set for Fall 2025 completion) were also made. The tennis complex received new enhancement including a striking Wesleyan-themed resurfacing and a new scoreboard. WVWC’s iconic Wesley Chapel steeple received a much-needed refresh. 

Moore oversaw a reimagining of the Office of Advancement, resulting in the highest Wesleyan Fund total in 20 years – with all donor gifts directly benefiting students. With Moore’s leadership, there has been the reestablishment of alumni trust and engagement, achieving 50% growth in the College’s alumni participation rate.  Due to Moore’s vision, the Office of Advancement also recently spearheaded the creation of the Wesleyan Athletics Endowment, ensuring long-term support for WVWC athletic programs. 

Moore said, “I am humbled and honored that the Board of Trustees has affirmed their confidence in the great work we’re doing at WVWC. Since 2006, this place has been my home and my passion, and I am excited to continue to be a member of this community for the next seven years.”

With this renewed leadership, West Virginia Wesleyan College remains committed to providing a transformative educational experience that supports its students, faculty, and the broader Appalachian region.

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 – 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 – West Virginia Wesleyan College has announced its President’s List and Provost’s List students for the Spring 2025 semester.

Provost Dr. Lynn M. Linder said, “The outstanding students named to our Provost’s and President’s Lists this semester exemplify the academic excellence and intellectual curiosity that define our institution’s highest ideals. Their dedication to scholarly achievement represents sustained commitment to their studies, thoughtful engagement, and exceptional academic performance.”

President’s List is composed of students who earned a 4.0 for the semester while completing at least 12 semester hours with no incomplete grades. The full list of students achieving President’s List honors can be found here.

Students who have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or above for the semester, while completing at least 12 semester hours with no incomplete grades are eligible for the Provost’s List.  Those students achieving Provost’s List honors can be found here.

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 – Five West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates who have succeeded in making an impact on campus, in the community and beyond were recognized as Outstanding Seniors during the recent Academic and Leadership Awards Ceremony.

Nominated by faculty and staff, these seniors were chosen for academic performance, with a 3.8 grade point average or above, and significant leadership in a variety of academic and co-curricular activities. These superior seniors, who best exemplify the high ideals of student involvement and contribution to campus life, have shown an uncommon commitment to academic excellence, participation in campus life, and service to the College.

Katie Morgan ‘25, of Monongah, West Virginia, is a psychology major with a religious studies minor. As a student leader with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, she fostered faith-based connections on campus, mentored peers, and created a welcoming environment for spiritual growth. Her passion for restorative justice led her to an internship at the Center for Restorative Justice, where she has contributed to efforts that promote healing and rehabilitation.  She has been a dedicated volunteer with the Center for Community Engagement WE LEAD Human Rights and Youth Empowerment teams. Morgan will be pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

Zeinah Abdelsalam ‘25, came to WVWC from Egypt via Dubai. A double major in economics and political science, Abdelsalam was a four-year member of the Women’s Swim Team and served as Captain, President of International Student Organization, Vice President of Student Senate, member of the WE LEAD Poverty Reduction Team,  a member of the Student Conduct Board, served as the Student Athlete Advisory Committee Formal Sub-Committee Chair, served on the Economics Department Search Committee, served on student senate committees for Renovations, Academic Calendar, and Food,  and served as an intern for the Center for Restorative Justice. Additionally, she interned in Public Relations for Orion Strategies, served as an Economics tutor, served as a teaching assistant, and gave lots of swim lessons to local youth. She has been accepted to Georgetown University in their Master of Science in Foreign Service Program.  

Danica Propst ‘25, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, is a three-year member of the Service Scholar Program and served as a Site Leader, the Student Senate-Awards & Elections Chairperson for two terms, the Alpha Delta Pi-Vice President of Operations & Greek Week Chair, the Lambda Pi Eta-Vice President, The Pharos Campus Newspaper-Editor-in-Chief, the Delight Ministries-Community Service Coordinator & Book Coordinator, a Communication Department Tutor, a Writing Center Employee, a member of Omicron Delta Kappa and a Law Intern at Klie Law Offices.  She has also served as a Youth Development Professional for the Boys and Girls Club of America, a Communication and Marketing intern at Trump’s Salon in Buckhannon, and a Summer SOLE Program assistant teacher. Propst graduated in three years and will be attending Penn State’s Dickinson School of Law, pursuing her dream of becoming a lawyer. 

Sadie Nichols ‘25 is a biochemistry major from Sistersville, West Virginia.  She is a McCuskey Fellowship recipient and has served as a four-year service scholar with her service site as Tennerton Elementary.  She served two terms as the Student Senate President, which afforded her the opportunity to be a voting member of the College’s Board of Trustees. She is a member of Concert Chorale, Gamma Kappa chapter of Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Lambda Delta, TriBeta Biology Honor Society, and the Benzene Ring Chemistry Club.  She is a work-study for the chemistry department, and served as an intern for Children’s HopeChest and traveled to Uganda with that project. She was also able to travel to Vietnam to study Vietnamese medicine and the Vietnamese language in a six-week summer program.

Nichols will be attending Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as a graduate student in their Entry-Level Doctor in Occupational Therapy program. Her ultimate goal is to become a pediatric occupational therapist.  

Kaef Rehman, ‘25, of Daniels, West Virginia, is a biology major with a chemistry minor from Daniels, West Virginia.  He entered Wesleyan in the GO D.O. Early Scholars program with his dreams to be a physician and he has never looked back! He has been a 4-year Service Scholar,  held several leadership positions in the Theta Chi Fraternity, been a member of the WE LEAD Invisible Illness team, Bobcat Entertainment, Tri-Beta Honor Society, and Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. He has also served as a Chemistry teaching assistant and a summer research intern in the WV INBRE program. As a part of the Children’s HopeChest program, Rehman was also able to travel to Uganda to experience the benefits of this outreach program.

He will attend the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine to fulfill his dream of becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. 

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 – West Virginia Wesleyan College is preparing for commencement exercises to be held on the Wesley Chapel oval this year. 

Commencement will be held Saturday, May 10 beginning at 10 a.m. this year recognizing nearly 200 undergraduate and graduate students. A livestream link is available at https://www.wvwc.edu/livestream-events/

A number of activities have been planned leading up to commencement this week. Grad Fest will kick off at 5 p.m. at the 88 Pavilion on Wednesday, May 7.

On Thursday, May 8, graduates get a final opportunity to win big at the Last Chance Big Bingo at 8 p.m. in the French A. See Dining Center. Prizes will be themed around items that will be needed for graduates to establish their new homes and careers. 

On Friday, May 9, Alderson Broaddus University transfer students will be recognized in the morning with a special reception at 11 a.m. in the Greek Alumni Room.

Nursing Convocation is slated for 1 p.m. in Wesley Chapel with a reception to follow in the French A. See Dining Hall Side Dining Rooms at 2 p.m.

The School of Education Reception will take place at 3 p.m. in the Greek Alumni Room.

Several organizations are participating in a Celebration of Achievement and Cording Ceremony at 4 p.m. in the Virginia Thomas Law Center for the Performing Arts. 

The Baccalaureate Ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. in Wesley Chapel. 

Following the ceremony, President James Moore invites graduates and their families to a Senior Send-Off at the 88 Pavilion beginning at 8:15 p.m.

For more information, visit www.wvwc.edu/commencement-2025/

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 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.