BUCKHANNON, West Virginia —  The West Virginia Wesleyan College Student Senate recognized two outstanding faculty and staff members whose contributions shape both the heart and the mind of the campus community.

Faculty Member of the Year is Joanna Webb ‘07, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at WVWC.
In addition to teaching, Webb also directs the summer research grants.

“I just finished my 14th year at Wesleyan and primarily teach organic chemistry,” she said. My students are always challenging me to be a better teacher, and I love getting to learn with them. They are the best part of my job, so I am very thankful for this recognition.”

The criteria for the awards include individuals who go beyond expectations in the ways they engage with students and colleagues alike. They foster connection, encourage growth, and help create an environment where students feel supported, valued, and challenged to reach their full potential.

Associate Director of Campus Life Colby Wamsley ‘24, who received the Staff Member of the Year Award, said, “To be recognized by our students with this award is such an amazing honor. They are what make our job worth it. The best part of my job is watching our students make their ideas become reality. I am once again very thankful to have received this award.” 

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