News Type: Student

BUCKHANNON, West Virginia – Several West Virginia Wesleyan College students spent part of their  summer traversing terrain in countries such as Chile, Vietnam, South Korea and Ireland while experiencing a different culture and taking advantage of unique learning opportunities.

Delaney Gump ’24, of Weston, West Virginia is a political science, criminal justice and sociology major, and said she had always wanted to experience study abroad. This summer, she spent June and July in Chile living with a host family and taking classes.

“My experience abroad was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had in my life,” she said. “To immerse myself into Chilean culture and the Spanish language was an enlightening experience and allowed me to gain a new perspective on my own life. I plan to travel to Chile again in the near future to explore more. I am extremely grateful to Dr. [Tamara] Bailey and the Maier scholarship for making my study abroad possible!”

Sadie Nichols ’25, of Sistersville, West Virginia, is a biochemistry and political science major where she spent several weeks with a host family, as well as traveling and exploring Vietnam.

Nichols added, “Studying abroad in Vietnam was a life-changing experience. I grew more in those 6 weeks than I’ve grown in my 20 years of life. Learning about Vietnamese Traditional Medicine, while also learning about Vietnamese culture in an immersive way staying with my host family, will be exceedingly applicable in my future career not only as a pediatric physician, but also as a well-rounded individual in the world.”

Students interested in Wesleyan Abroad opportunities have been attending seminars this semester to learn more about the unique opportunities available. Wesleyan Abroad scholarship applications are due Nov. 29.

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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, today, announced a partnership with Uwill, the leading mental health and wellness solution for colleges and students, to increase and expand upon the college’s existing counseling capabilities. West Virginia Wesleyan College adds this teletherapy option at a time of increased mental health challenges across the United States. Uwill’s proprietary technology facilitates immediate appointments with licensed mental health counselors based on student needs and preferences.

“We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment that values the well-being of every individual,” said Alison Whitehair, Vice President for Student Development, at West Virginia Wesleyan College. “Uwill helps us to empower our students to prioritize their mental health and connect with a counselor that is right for them to support their academic journey.” 

Recent survey data shows 79% of surveyed students reported experiencing moderate or high stress levels within the last 30 days. Additionally, while 42% of college students have expressed the need for help with mental health difficulties in the last year, more than 60% of these students have never received counseling or therapy.

“We’re proud to be able to support colleges in a way that provides students with immediacy and without obstacles,” said Michael London, founder and CEO of Uwill. “Our solution empowers students to select a therapist they feel most comfortable with when its convenient for them.”

Utilizing its proprietary technology and counselor team, Uwill pioneered the first student and therapist matching platform. The solution offers an immediate appointment with a licensed counselor based on student preferences, all modalities of teletherapy, a direct crisis connection, wellness events, realtime data, and support. 

WVWC’s Center for Counseling and Wellbeing continues to offer free consultation, crisis support, solution-focused single session and short-term counseling sessions to all undergraduate and graduate students as  part of Wesleyan’s commitment to student well-being. Services are also provided through Community Care of West Virginia.

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

ABOUT Uwill

Uwill is the leading mental health and wellness solution for colleges and students. The most cost-effective way to expand and enhance a college’s mental health offerings, Uwill partners with 200 institutions including Babson College, University of Michigan, Columbus State Community College, and University of Maryland, College Park. Uwill is also the teletherapy education partner for NASPA and the Online Learning Consortium. For more information, visit uwill.com. 

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 and the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine continues to expand their partnership with four new students entering into the Go D.O. Early Scholars Program this academic year. 

The Go D.O. Early Scholars Program allows qualifying students to receive guaranteed acceptance into the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, upon successful completion of the undergraduate program requirements and interview as well as a waived MCAT. The program represents the first of its kind partnership between WVSOM and another institution of higher learning. 

The first cohort is now in their junior year at West Virginia Wesleyan College.

“As this program continues to grow, we remain so proud of the students who have made the choice to pursue a career in osteopathic medicine,” Dr. James Moore, president of West Virginia Wesleyan College, said. “Our region needs primary care providers who understand how to treat the whole person, and I know these students will be among the best practitioners anywhere. We continue to be honored that West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine thought of Wesleyan to partner in this program.”

Madelyn Armstrong ’27, of Bridgeport, West Virginia; Wyatt Burns ’27, of  Horner, West Virginia; Jack Monks ’27, of Charleston, West Virginia; and Lanna Nguyen ‘27, of Bristow, Virginia were recognized during a luncheon Tuesday with officials from WVWC and WVSOM in attendance. 

Armstrong said, “An offer like this only comes once in a lifetime. Being guaranteed a spot in medical school before I even began undergrad was truly a blessing, and being able to stay relatively close to home in both undergrad and med school is really important to me.”

“Having my mom, a nurse of 20 years, as a strong role model in my life directed me towards medicine, but the ability to help people in a way that piques my interest is why I chose medicine – specifically emergency medicine.”

Burns also saw the benefit of being able to advance his career goals with the Go D.O. Early Scholars program.

 “Wesleyan was a perfect fit in its size, location, and strong science department, while WVSOM is a top-tier primary care school,” he said. “I was interested in both schools before I even knew of this program, and it just seemed like a perfect fit. WVSOM also stood in high regard in my community, as many of Lewis County’s doctors have attended, and they strongly recommended the school.”

“I want to pursue a career as a doctor to provide a high-quality trustworthy service to my community,” Burns said. “I have seen so many people who have a negative stigmatism associated with going to a doctor, and having already strong ties to my community I hope to break those views. I want to be there for my community and help those who need it most.” 

Monks said, “The Go D.O. Program allows me to focus on exploring my interests in and outside of the medical field without the looming stress of medical school applications. The assurance of acceptance into osteopathic medical school combined with the education, service and research opportunities I am receiving at WVWC was too enticing to pass up.

“I want to pursue medicine as a way of giving back to the community that raised me. Food insecurity runs rampant in West Virginia, and heavily impacted me and my neighbors. I want to gain the education necessary to advocate for balanced diets in rural WV as a family physician.” 

Nguyen added, “Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to work in the medical field and work as a doctor, so after seeing that the Go DO Program was a guaranteed direct path to achieving my goal and dream, I applied. I first learned about osteopathic medicine in my sports medicine class during my senior year of high school and I instantly knew that it was what I wanted to do in the future as I loved the ‘whole person’ or ‘whole body’ approach of care, so I knew that WVSOM’s partnership with WVWC would give me the highest chance of success when it came to achieving my career goals.”

“I wanted to pursue a career in medicine for a variety of reasons. My mom works as a pharmacist, so I’ve always been immersed in the world of health care and I wanted to follow in the same path. My main reason for pursuing a career in medicine, however, stems from my deep passion for science (especially biological sciences), problem solving and being able to help and care for others, and my love for people and humanity. I love caring for others and I constantly want to help them by being the best person I can be for them, which makes me believe that medicine is my calling.”

Bryer Ketterman ‘25, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; Kaef Rehman ’25, of Daniels, West Virginia; Matthew Hambrecht ’25, of Frederick, Maryland;  Abigail Patterson ’25, of Charleston, West Virginia; Ravenna Navalgund ’26, of Irvin, Pennsylvania; and Srikiran Nandigama ‘26, of Salt Point, New York comprise the first two classes of Go D.O. Scholars. 

Applications are now being accepted for 2024 admission. The priority deadline is December 1.  In-state and out-of-state students who score at least a 1390 on the SAT or at least a 30 on the ACT and have at least a 3.75 grade point average qualify for the Go D.O. Early Scholars Program. Click here to find out more. 

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 – A 20-year tradition, Trick-or-Treat for Canned Goods will go on Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 6-7:30 p.m. during the city-wide trick-or-treat time. Students from West Virginia Wesleyan College will be visiting neighborhoods around the college to collect non-perishable food items for the Upshur Parish House.

There will be a handful of routes traveled by students, but if your house is missed or you are not home, your donations are always more than welcome at the Parish House (located on the corner of College Avenue and Sedgwick Street) during the week from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 

“Trick-or-Treat for Canned Goods is one of those annual fall traditions that is well-known among the Wesleyan and Buckhannon communities. This collaboration relies heavily on our good neighbors in the community surrounding the college, and the student volunteers going door to door are always left full of joy when families run to their pantries to collect donations. It’s such a wonderful way for the students to explore our community and create an avenue of giving to the Parish House,” said Jessica Vincent, Director of the Center for Community Engagement and Leadership Development.

Please show support to the community by having a few cans of nonperishable food items ready for the trick-or-treaters. The Parish House has stated the most needed donations are peanut butter and items for the upcoming Thanksgiving food baskets such as Jiffy pie crust mixes, instant potatoes, or green beans.   Your support and donations are greatly appreciated. 

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 – All Bachelor of Science in Nursing 2023 graduates have successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt, a testament to the dedication and excellence of students and faculty in the West Virginia Wesleyan College School of Nursing.

School of Nursing Director Dr. Tina Straight, DNP, MSN Ed., CNE, RN, said, “The NCLEX-RN is widely recognized as one of the most challenging professional licensure exams, and achieving a 100% pass rate is a testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence within our School of Nursing. This remarkable accomplishment reflects the outstanding education and training provided by our faculty and the hard work and dedication of our students.

“West Virginia Wesleyan College School of Nursing has a long-standing tradition of producing highly skilled and competent nurses who make a positive impact on healthcare in our community and beyond. Our faculty members are experts in their fields, and they are dedicated to providing our students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience they need to excel in their nursing careers.

“We are extremely proud of our students for their dedication and perseverance in preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam. Our faculty members have worked tirelessly to ensure that our students are well-prepared for this important milestone in their nursing careers.

“The 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam is a testament to the exceptional quality of education and support provided by the School of Nursing. It reaffirms our commitment to producing competent and compassionate nurses who are ready to meet the health care challenges of today and tomorrow.”

For more information about the School of Nursing, 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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 – Two feuding mountain families and a nearly 1,000-pound pig are the beginnings of the latest dinner theatre offering from West Virginia Wesleyan College’s Department of Theatre & Dance.

Written and directed by Dr. Gregory Mach, associate professor, “The Case of the Sleepwalking Pig” promises lots of laughs, some mountain music and a murder-mystery to solve.

The play starts with a meeting to announce that Curly Boy, the 977 pound MacRoy family pig, has been kidnapped. The MacRoys suspect the Flatfield family and they want the pig back. The pastor tries to keep the peace as accusations and old animosities fly, stirring up the feud again.

Mach said, “We started doing these dinner theatre mysteries 10 years ago, and we have such a blast every time. It’s a great way to showcase our talent and the great food at these restaurants. The audience has so much fun because they are a part of the action- they have to figure out ‘whodunnit,’ or sit back and laugh while other people figure it all out. Either way, it’s two hours of fun, great food, and great music.”

There are three opportunities to try to figure out ‘whodunnit.”

On November 4, the dinner theatre will be produced at the Buckhannon Opera House on Main Street at 6:30 p.m. The menu includes slow-roasted pork, mashed potatoes with peppercorn gravy, homestyle green beans, American salad, artisan dinner rolls, soda, water or coffee and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Tickets are $30. Call 304-472-8369 for reservations.

The following weekend, there are two showtimes at 2 or 6 p.m. on November 12 at the Lodge in Alpena, located in Bowden. The menu includes pulled pork, baked mac ‘n’ cheese, collard greens, five-bean bake, cole slaw, cornbread, garden salad, homemade bread an choice of pineapple upside down or chocolate cream cake. Tickets are $45 per person and call 304-636-1470.

“Doing these shows helps our students to learn the ins and outs of improvisational theatre,” Mach said. “They never know what the audience will say or will ask them, so they have to figure out how to answer in character and in a way that will help their character get away with it, or implicate another character, or just move the plot along. And usually they’ll give us a good laugh along the way.”

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 students voted seniors Talia Cooper and Hunter Williams  as Homecoming Royalty and after a quick kiss on the field – the couple is engaged – Williams ditched his crown for his helmet to return to the Bobcat locker room during halftime Saturday.

Cooper, a nursing major from Beckley, West Virginia, is the chapter president of Alpha Xi Delta, a Kappa Alpha Order Sweetheart, the Senior Class Committee Secretary, part of the We Lead Invisible Illness Team, a WVWC Student Ambassador and a Student Nurses of Wesleyan member.

Williams, from Beckley, West Virginia, is an exercise science major and plans to get a master’s in athletic training. He is Kappa Alpha Order President, Alpha Xi Delta Sweetie Pooh in addition to being a member of the football team.

Eight more seniors were also recognized on the Homecoming Court.

Joshua Castro ‘24 is an environmental studies major from Laurel, Maryland. He is a member of the WVWC football team and Kappa Alpha Order.

Kaitlynn Peña ‘24 is a nursing major from Harlingen, Texas. Kaitlynn is the President of the Student Nurses of Wesleyan, a member of the Women’s Soccer Team, and Alpha Delta Pi. Kaitlynn would like to shout out her parents and little brother for all of their support and encouragement during her college years. She would also like to thank her friends back at home and at WVWC for encouraging her to be the best version of herself.

Laila Calhoun ‘24 is a criminal justice and psychology major from Greenbank, West Virginia. She is a member of the women’s basketball and track and field teams. She is also a member of the Army National Guard.

Novalee Schmidt ‘24 is a psychology and criminal justice major from Inwood, West Virginia. She is the chapter events director for Alpha Xi Delta, Beta Sigma and is a member of the WE LEAD Human Rights team.

Abby Bowe ‘24 is a biochemistry major from Charleston, West Virginia. She is a member of Alpha Delta Pi and Benzene Ring Chemistry Club.

Lillian Almand ‘24 is a psychology and political science major from Fredericksburg, Virginia. Lillian is a member of Alpha Delta Pi, works as a Resident Director for the Campus Life Office, and in the Psychology research lab.

Jenna Gomez ’24 is a Health Science major from Apple Valley, California. Jenna is a member of the softball team.

Maya Reyes ’24 is a criminal justice and psychology major from Staten Island, N.Y. She is a member of the softball team and Alpha Xi Delta.

Junior attendant Savannah O’Shields ‘25 is a marketing major with a biology minor from Bethany Beach, Delaware. She is part of the softball team, a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, a Greek life PR intern, works at the writing center and is a Kappa Alpha Rose.

Sophomore attendant Cadence Ringer ’26  is a marketing major from Buckhannon, West Virginia. She is a member of Alpha Delta Pi, Student Senate Secretary, an employee at Country Time Cooking, and the 2023 Clay County Golden Delicious Festival Queen.

Freshman attendant Sydney Baird ’27 is a five-year athletic training/exercise science major from Webster Springs, West Virginia. She is a member of the women’s basketball and golf teams.

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 –   Eight individuals who continually find ways to serve their campus, community and beyond were officially sworn in as West Virginia Wesleyan College Trustees during Founders Day 2023.

Arria Hines ‘95, born and raised in rural West Virginia, is an accomplished and energetic business leader and entrepreneur. In 2009, Hines founded Allegheny Science & Technology, a woman-owned West Virginia-based energy services company. From two employees, to nearly 240, AST is a leader in alternative energy technologies and renewable energies. Hines is a member of WVU’s Visiting Committee, TechConnect Board of Directors, West Virginia Governor’s STEM Council, Upshur County Development Authority Board and an advocate for the West Virginia Public Speaker’s Bureau. She is an executive member of the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub Board.

Rev. Martha Ognibene ‘79, is senior pastor of Wesley UMC in Morgantown. Ognibene is an elder in The United Methodist Church and has served churches in Parkersburg, Huntington, Colliers and Short Gap as well as superintendent of the Northern District. Ognibene also earned degrees from Virginia Tech and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio.

Angel (Williamson) Riley ’99 earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from WVWC and obtained a Master of Public Administration in Government Management from Southeastern University. She is senior manager, political affairs, for the North America subsidiary of the leading medical technology corporation Royal Philips. In 2005, she co-founded the Black Alumni Network, an unofficial alumni networking group for WVWC. She also previously served on the Alumni Council from 2009-2015 and headed a capital campaign to renovate the BSU House and chaired the Alumni Council’s silent auction. A four-time Amazon Bestselling author, podcast host, global speaker and certified life coach, Riley continually demonstrates Wesleyan’s objective for alumni to be leaders throughout their lives.

Curtis Wilkerson ’99 majored in history and political science at WVWC and went on to found Orion Strategies, a firm providing strategic communication, public relations and state and federal government affairs. Offices can now be found in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Washington, D.C., as well as West Virginia. He is married to Kristi Wilkerson ’99, who recently accepted the position of Vice President of Advancement at WVWC.

Michael Bush ’10 is an attorney and entrepreneur in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, owning and operating various real estate companies, including 1st Management Group, LLC and Real Property Solutions, LLC.  Mike graduated with Honors from WVWC in 2010 and from West Virginia University College of Law in 2013 as a member of Order of the Coif.  He is active with the Berkeley County Planning Commission and Gerrardstown Presbyterian Church. Mike and his wife, Liz, have the honor of raising a rambunctious toddler, Abby. Since graduating from Wesleyan, Mike and a core group of Bobcat friends gather every year for a Thanksgiving cabin weekend – and their spouses and children have quickly become part of the Wesleyan family.

David Young ’87 is the founder and chief consultant of Young & Associates, a specialized consultancy based in London that focuses on developing global product positioning and branding for pharmaceuticals and other medical products. David holds an MBA in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management (now a unit of Arizona State University), a BS degree in marketing and biology from West Virginia Wesleyan College, and a certificate in Japanese studies from Nanzan University in Nagoya, Japan. He is a guest lecturer at the Karachi School of Business (with ties to Cambridge University). He is in the process of being certified as a board director from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD). David has been an advisor to the Board of Trustees of Hackney Empire Theatre in London, where he helped shape their equity story to support fundraising efforts. He is a long-standing member and former chairman of the senior advisory board to the Dean of Thunderbird, where he also acts as counsel to the school on marketing and branding related issues. David is part of the original founding team for the ‘Thunderbird SHARE Fellowship’, a prestigious alumni-driven scholarship/mentorship programme for exceptional students from developing countries wishing to attend Thunderbird.  David speaks German, is a certified Master SCUBA Diver, an Emergency SCUBA Medic, enjoys skiing and riding horses, and in his spare time volunteers as a surgical assistant for medical mission work in remote locations around the world.

Joanna McQuaid Webb ’07 is an associate professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. She graduated from Wesleyan with a BS in Chemistry in 2007. She obtained her PhD in organometallic chemistry in 2012 from the University of Virginia, synthesizing novel transition metal complexes for catalytic small molecule transformations related to the energy sector. She began teaching at Wesleyan in 2012 and received the Exemplary Teaching Award in 2018. Joanna currently serves as a Career Consultant for the American Chemical Society and as Chair of Faculty Senate.  She also owns and operates Three Little Buds in Buckhannon.

Bill Pastorius earned both of his degrees from West Virginia University – he completed his Bachelor of Science in Education (Secondary English specialization) in 1996 and Master of Arts in Reading in 2003. He taught English at Frankfort High School for five years before moving to Johnson City while his wife did research at East Tennessee State University.  After the birth of his daughter in 2009, Bill moved back home to WV and began working as a reading clinician at Wesleyan’s Learning Center in May of 2010.  He has been the Coordinator of Lindamood-Bell®* Methods program since August 2011.  Bill was elected to Staff Council in 2020, served as Vice Chair in 2022-2023, and currently serves as Chair.

Sadie Nichols ’25, current president of the Student Senate, is an ex-officio member of the board of trustees, along with Webb and Pastorious.

The trustees recently elected new officers: Kevin Spear ’76 as chair, Dr. Ellis Conley ’73 as secretary, Bill Fahrner ’96, MBA ’02 as chair of finance and David A. Young ‘87 as chair of governance and trusteeship.  Other trustees returning are John Allevato ’76, Brian Brouillette ’82; Jason Fiegel ‘00; Dr. Alan Letton; Justin Raber ’08; Rev. Dr. Vance Ross ’79; Rev. Amy Shanholtzer ’87; Dr. Joanne Soliday ’69, Hon. ’16; Craig Welsh ’93; and Jamion Wolford ’08.

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 excited to announce Family Weekend will be Sept. 29-Oct. 1.

Friday night includes a special opportunity, S’Moores with President James Moore, at 7:30 p.m. at the fire pit located behind the Annie Merner Pfeifer Library. Earlier that day, Moore will have an investiture as part of the Founders Day ceremony to become the 20^th president of the College since its founding in 1890.

On Saturday, there will be a number of events including the chance to catch a softball scrimmage, hear the Pep Band during a showcase on the Chapel Lawn, take in an intrasquad swim meet and screen print a design at the Art Department in McCuskey Hall.

At 1 p.m., the Football ‘Cats take on West Virginia State University. Admission is free. During halftime, Homecoming Royalty will be introduced.

Executive Chef Jason Fleck and his team at Aladdin Food Service are planning a chef’s special dinner in French A. See Dining Center from 4:30-6 p.m. Saturday Night includes a student favorite, Big Bingo, in the Dining Hall.

Family Weekend wraps up with brunch in the dining hall at 11:15 a.m. and a softball scrimmage at noon.

These events are in addition to a robust schedule planned for Homecoming 2023 also taking place over the weekend.

For a full schedule of events and to register, visit www.wvwc.edu/familyweekend

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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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 Department of Theatre & Dance presents “Proof” by David Auburn, Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 5-7 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.

Winner of the 2001 Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Play as well as the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “Proof” is the story of an enigmatic young woman, Catherine, her calculating older sister, their genius father, and an unexpected suitor, all pieces of the puzzle in the search for evidence about the origins of a mysterious mathematical proof. This poignant drama unfolds on the back porch of an older suburban Chicago home, near a university where the father taught. David Auburn’s characters are brilliant and instantly recognizable as those members of our own families.

The cast includes junior musical theater majors Sydney Stewart of Barboursville, West Virginia as Claire and Ben Long of Buckhannon, West Virginia as Hal, as well as Buckhannon resident Alan Stephens as Robert. As part of the requirements for their senior capstone, senior acting and directing major Ellery Brown of Bay City, Michigan is featured as Catherine. Crew for the show includes costume designs by freshman psychology major Kostadena Matina Hartley of Buckhannon, West Virginia, properties design by freshman education major Tina Green of Huntington, West Virginia, house and box office management by senior psychology major Colby Wamsley of Clarksburg, West Virginia, sound design by senior biochemistry major Owen Hess of Bridgeport, West Virginia and stage management by criminal justice and technical theater double-major Jay Coping-Smith of Charleston, West Virginia, graphic designs by Associate Professor Jon Benjamin, with scenic and lighting designs by David Hartley, new Director of Technical Theater. The play is directed by Associate Professor and Department Chair, Thomas Schoffler.

This play runs just under two hours with a 10-minute intermission and contains adult language, physical intimacy and frank depictions of mental illness. If you have questions, please contact schoffler_t@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 2024 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States. U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan eighth in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students more than 50 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.