West Virginia University at Parkersburg approves new programs and renovations

West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s Board of Governors met on June 9, 2026 to approve three new programs and renovations for the Innovation and Technology Center, among other business matters. The university is working toward having fully independent administrative operations after relying upon West Virginia University for administrative support.

According to an article on West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s website, President Dr. Torie Jackson was quoted as saying of the transition to administrative independence, “This transition is about more than software or administrative systems. It is about strengthening WVU Parkersburg’s capacity to govern, manage, and support itself as an independent institution. The work being completed today will serve the college for many years to come. Frankly, this is a project that could have continued to be delayed because maintaining the status quo would have been easier. Instead, our team embraced the challenge and committed to doing the hard work necessary to position the institution for long-term success.”

West Virginia University at Parkersburg will launch its own Human Resources and Business Services systems on June 27, 2026. This launch represents the hard work of Jeannine Hetrick-Ratliffe, the executive director of Finance and Administration, CFO Bradley Wilson, and Human Resources Executive Director Mary Bentz, according to Dr. Jackson.

The new programs approved at the meeting are a Certificate of Applied Science in Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), a Certificate of Applied Science in Paramedic, and a Micro-Credential in Infant and Toddler care. The programs were developed as a response to the community’s demand.

Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. David Lancaster said, “This is what our community was asking for.” 

In particular, the Infant and Toddler Micro-Credential was developed due to a change in state legislative rules that require individuals who work with infants under 24 months old to have 40 hours of approved training as part of their education. Students were asking for this credential for a flexible option to complete their required training without needing to miss work to do so. The credential was developed to be completed online and qualifies for WV STARS funding, so most people can complete the credential at no cost.

In the matter of funding for the Innovation and Technology Center, the Board approved $2 million in unrestricted funding to perform facility renovations.

The Board also approved policy updates regarding sabbatical leave, holidays, adjunct faculty and emergency call-in procedures.

Chief Financial Officer Bradley Wilson noted that the school is in its 10th consecutive semester of enrollment growth. He said, “Despite increased marketing efforts and outreach by some of our fellow institutions coming into our area, we are still attracting a significant portion of the student population. This is a distinction I believe we all wish to maintain, and it reflects our collaboration and commitment to the area, the community, and our students, both current and future.”

The Board will next meet on August 18, 2026.

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