Dear West Virginia University Faculty, Staff and Students,
When my journey as a higher education leader led me back to West Virginia University in 2014, I remarked on the talented faculty, staff and students who were so passionate about fulfilling West Virginians’ hopes and dreams.
A decade later, as we begin a new academic year, I am struck again by the same sense of energy and enthusiasm – and purpose. That sense of purpose has led to groundbreaking discoveries, broken records and countless personal achievements.
West Virginia University is the only flagship, R1, land-grant in the state – and one of only five flagship, R1, land-grant, community-engaged universities in the nation.
Our academic programs provide a forum for critical thinking and enhancing essential skills, while also providing a pathway toward a vibrant career. We are investing in programs that our students and industry want and need. Over the past 10 years, our robotics teams have placed first at nine national or international competitions, including the 2023 University Rover Challenge. Now, with the new robotics engineering program, students can major in this ever-expanding field while gaining valuable hands-on experiences. And we recently received $1 million in NASA funding to support this new program.
Our world-class health care is saving lives and conducting research that can change the trajectory of a person’s life. We are so proud to have had the research of the Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute featured on “60 Minutes” earlier this year. The life-changing discoveries Dr. Ali Rezai and team are making with Alzheimer’s and opioid addiction is truly remarkable.
And that is just one research team. Teams across this University are doing important work in various fields, including astrophysics, energy, forensic science, substance use disorders and cybersecurity. And I am very proud to report that for fiscal year 2024, West Virginia University crushed its record in externally supported research expenditures with $275 million — an 82% increase from five years ago. That year — 2019 — the University reported $152 million in research expenditures, which are funds spent to conduct research. It is a true testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and undergraduate and graduate students who engage in research every day on this campus.
I share all of this to emphasize that we have much to be proud of at West Virginia University. As a faculty member or researcher, we are devoted to making this University a wonderful place of inquiry and discovery. As a staff member, we strive every day to make our university a safe and welcoming place for our students and guests. And as a student, you will make us better with your ideas, your energy and the passion you bring to campus.
As we begin a new semester, take advantage of the opportunities our University affords us.
Faculty and staff, be engaged with the various activities happening on campus. Be sure to read the daily updates from the University at enews.wvu.edu. Welcome new faculty and staff members to the Mountaineer family and share your favorite spots on campus and in Morgantown. And, as always, take advantage of the resources and supports available at wvu.edu/info-for/faculty-and-staff.
Students, I encourage you to explore new activities and make new friends. Find your niche in one of more than 500 student organizations. Cheer on your favorite teams at any of our Big 12 sporting events. Get to know your advisors and faculty. Go to class and if you need help, there are plenty of resources you can access (check out students.wvu.edu). Our talented and dedicated faculty and staff stand ready to help you every step of the way.
I also encourage everyone to review the safety resources found at safety.wvu.edu. This site can guide you to fitness classes, substance abuse recovery and stress management, as well as emergency information and the WVU Alert system.
So, let us begin this new semester with a renewed commitment to be our best. Whether you are a new or seasoned Mountaineer, make today the start of a new adventure. Embrace this opportunity to learn and explore in this special place that we call home.
Together, we can reach our highest purpose and our highest potential.
Let’s go.
E. Gordon Gee
President, West Virginia University