West Virginia University President Michael T. Benson announced a record retention rate for the Morgantown Campus, with more than 85% of freshmen returning as sophomores for Fall 2025. The university also reported a more than 7% increase in first-time freshman enrollment across its system.
“We have many reasons to feel good about where we are and where we’re going as a University,” Benson said. “At a tumultuous time in higher education, overall enrollment is holding steady while already strong, state-leading retention numbers continue to improve.”
Benson introduced the Strategic Compass, a new plan aimed at guiding WVU’s future development. The plan outlines five main priorities: education, discovery, health, service, and experiences. It also highlights foundational areas such as people and culture, finance, infrastructure, and reputation. These are united by five guiding principles based on the university’s slogan “Let’s Go!”: Lead with pride; Empower through education; Transform lives; Stake our claim; Grow our reach; Outperform our competition.
The updated mission statement reads: “At WVU, pride in our land-grant mission runs deep, success is earned, and life-changing experiences prepare Mountaineers to serve others and lead in West Virginia and the world. Your bold future starts here. Let’s Go!”
The Board of Governors gave initial approval to two projects under the Athletics Master Plan: the first phase of the Milan Puskar Stadium West Tower Project and the Hope Coliseum Premium Seating Project.
“In addition to serving our fans, growing our premium seating offerings in our two main competition venues is critical to producing long-term revenue streams that are vital to our future growth and success,” said Wren Baker, vice president and director of Athletics.
“The end result will enhance the game-day experience at both venues, give fans access to new seating options and amenities, while also making Milan Puskar Stadium more viable for concerts and other events. We are excited about these projects because they will benefit WVU in a multitude of ways for many years, and I cannot thank President Benson and our Board of Governors enough for their continued support.”
The planned upgrades at Milan Puskar Stadium include demolishing the current press box—last renovated in 1980—to build an expanded tower. This project is estimated at over $150 million with funding expected from fundraising efforts as well as sales, naming rights, and sponsorships. Further board approvals will be needed before work proceeds.
For Hope Coliseum Premium Seating Project, $1.5 million will fund 85 loge- and 16 ledge-style upscale seating areas.
At WVU Potomac State College—the largest capital project there in over two decades—the Board approved a $4.9 million renovation budget for Science Hall Lab classrooms that have not been updated in nearly 75 years.
“These renovations are critical for the future and vitality of WVU Potomac State College,” PSC President Jerry Wallace said. “It’s essential that we modernize these spaces to attract new students.”
Funding sources include over $3 million from state grants focused on deferred maintenance through the Higher Education Policy Commission; $600,000 from university capital funds; and $1 million from WVU Medicine earmarked for nursing students’ needs. Renovations are scheduled for completion by Fall 2026.
“This signals to our prospective students and our community that WVU is committed to the success of Potomac State College and the important role this College serves in the WVU System,” Wallace added.
The Board also received an unqualified or “clean” audit opinion on its FY 2025 financial statements.
“The University’s balance sheet remains stable with adequate current assets to meet current obligations,” said Barbara Weiss, interim chief financial officer and vice president of Finance.
Additional actions taken by the Board included approving:
– A $1.29 million budget to replace J.W. Ruby Research Center’s horse barn destroyed by fire last December.
– Launching new master’s programs in Plant & Soil Sciences (Davis College) and Strategic Organizational Communication (Eberly College), both starting Fall 2026.
– Initiating public comment on proposed amendments regarding drug/alcohol testing rules affecting certain employee categories between Nov. 10–Dec. 11.
