NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University is seeing a positive trend in student retention, with the projected first-time freshman retention rate for Fall 2024 to Spring 2025 reaching a record 93.8%. Paul Kreider, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed at the WVU Board of Governors meeting the significance of this rate. Kreider mentioned that the retention rate serves as an indicator of student satisfaction with their college experience and the support they receive, increasing their likelihood of continuing to their sophomore year.

The WVU Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources reported an even higher retention rate of 97%, and there was also a noted increase in retention among first-generation students. Kreider credited “the good work of our dedicated academic advisers and our faculty” for these accomplishments.

Charlie Long, SGA President and BOG Student Representative, highlighted student success stories during the Student Government Association report, emphasizing improvements in campus safety, connectivity, and purpose-driven initiatives within the past year.

The Board approved several academic programs, including two new offerings in the WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics. The Bachelor of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics will explore the use and maintenance of AI and data analytics tools, while the Master of AI Science in Marketing aims to educate graduate students on utilizing AI to address marketing challenges. Brad Price, chair and associate professor for the Department of Management Information Systems and Supply Chain, hailed these programs for addressing the demand for AI expertise in the workforce and positioning WVU at the forefront of this field.

Additionally, the Board approved relocating the WVU Police Department to the Chestnut Ridge Research Building, scheduled for August 10. This move aims to provide more space and a modern setting for the officers. The current police department location will be transitioned to WVU Medicine.

Updates from WVU Potomac State College and WVU Institute of Technology were presented by their respective presidents during a meeting of the BOG Divisional Campus Committee, preceding the regular Board of Governors meeting.