West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s WVU at Parkersburg Foundation introduces on-campus housing for first time

West Virginia University Parkersburg will be opening its new Innovation and Technology Center in August 2025, and thanks to the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation, the Residences at ITC will also open, marking the first time on-campus student housing has ever been available at the WVU Parkersburg. The WVU at Parkersburg Foundation will retain ownership of the residence halls, which will provide housing for 55 students in single-occupancy rooms.

According to an article on West Virginia University Parkersburg’s website, Olivia Reeder, who serves as the President and CEO of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation, was quoted as saying, “The decision to bring residence halls to WVU Parkersburg was a mission-driven choice by the Foundation’s Board of Directors. They recognized that housing is critical to expanding access, supporting student success, and growing the college’s reach. As WVU Parkersburg launches new programs through the Innovation and Technology Center and serves an evolving student population, the need for on-campus housing has become more urgent. By owning the residence halls, the Foundation ensures that WVU Parkersburg can offer student housing while remaining compliant with state regulations. It’s a demonstration of our deep commitment to student access and long-term growth.”

The Residences at ITC will provide single-occupancy rooms for 55 students: 28 female and 27 male. The rooms will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis for students aged 18-22. A bed, desk, dresser, and sink, and on-site laundry and wifi will be provided. By providing these rooms and amenities on campus for the first time, the university expects to remove barriers some students may be experiencing, such as having unstable housing situations or living too far away from campus for a reasonable commute to classes.

Reeder said, speaking of the changes offering on-campus housing will bring about, “It positions us to grow strategically, attract a broader and more diverse student population, and enhance campus vibrancy. This project is a foundational step in transforming WVU Parkersburg from a primarily commuter campus into a true destination campus — one known for opportunity, innovation, and community.”

The building in which the residence halls will be housed, the Innovation and Technology Center, will also serve as a hub for students in career-focused programs, like Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Network Administration, Cloud Computing, and Mechanical Engineering Technology.

Speaking of the opportunities that will arise for the university with the opening of the Innovation and Technology Center, WVU Parkersburg President Dr. Torie Jackson said, “The Innovation and Technology Center represents a bold investment in the future of our region. For donors, it’s an opportunity to be part of something lasting—something that creates real impact by empowering students, attracting industry, and revitalizing a once-quiet campus into a hub of opportunity. Your support doesn’t just build a building; it builds a legacy. This facility will offer students advanced training and modern lab spaces to prepare them for in-demand careers in technology and engineering. In addition to academic offerings, the ITC will host industry partners co-located on-site to provide hands-on training, internships, and direct employment pipelines. The campus will also support community needs through childcare services, workforce credentialing, and access to regional transportation routes. Together, we can achieve more.”

For more information about West Virginia University at Parkersburg, visit the school’s website.