NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University is offering essential support to student parents through its Student Family Resources unit. This initiative aims to help students with families achieve their higher education goals by providing necessary programs and services.

Alexandria Broadus, a graduate from Hagerstown, Maryland, shared her experience of completing a social work degree while managing the challenges of parenthood. "This is something that is definitely doable," she stated. Despite considering suspending her studies after discovering her pregnancy in her junior year, Broadus found assistance through Student Family Resources for daycare costs, which helped her continue her education.

Student Family Resources offers various programs including daycare support, before- and after-school programs, and coverage during school breaks. Program Coordinator Cindy Teets emphasized the mission of connecting student parents to vital campus resources. "Watching them achieve their dreams while raising a family is very rewarding," she said.

Adekunle Ajiboye, a doctoral student at WVU Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, benefited from this support as well. He expressed gratitude for the financial assistance that allowed him to manage his studies while caring for his twins.

Medical student Bradford Davis also highlighted how assistance from Student Family Resources enabled him to continue his education amidst financial difficulties due to unexpected family growth and medical expenses. "This single, incredibly generous intervention drastically changed my experience at WVU," he explained.

The WVU Child Learning Center provides care for children of university students and employees. The Mountaineer KidZone offers flex-care services for young children at the Student Rec Center. Additionally, the Women's Resource Center collaborates with Student Family Resources to maintain the WVU Lactation Network on campus.

Support extends beyond childcare; it includes access to babysitting services, affordable healthcare options, nutrition assistance programs, and mental health resources.

Broadus successfully graduated in May with her son present at the ceremony. Reflecting on her achievement, she said: "It's something that I'm very grateful for... A college degree is one thing that no one can take away from you."

Many more graduates will join Broadus as WVU alumni following December Commencement events.