Thursday, September 7, 2023
Dear WVU Students,
We are at a pivotal moment for West Virginia University. On Friday, September 15, the West Virginia University Board of Governors will be voting on the final recommendations from the Academic Program Portfolio Review Process. These final recommendations have been announced over the past several days.
I want to assure you that we have been – and will continue to be – a strong and vibrant University. These measures, known as Academic Transformation, have always been to better prepare you – our students – for your futures, to strengthen WVU’s R1 position and to elevate the University’s national reputation by investing in key academic areas that differentiate us.
The final recommendations under consideration will keep our University financially viable and set the stage for future investments in programs that meet future student and societal needs.
I understand this is a very difficult process and is deeply personal for many of you. And I appreciate those who have met with me or sent emails expressing their concerns and frustrations. Though the final recommendations will affect some of our students’ academic pathways, the vast majority of students will be allowed to finish their degree program. And for others, we will help find a path forward that meets your academic goals. Overall, fewer than 2% of students are directly affected by the recommendations being considered.
Your academic and student experiences are very important to me and all who support you. These changes will lead to improved student success, higher graduation rates and a pathway for you to head into thriving careers and an alumni network ready to support you.
I encourage you to continue to learn more about the efforts taking place at the University by visiting the website transformation.wvu.edu. You also can send questions to transformation@mail.wvu.edu.
Sincerely,
E. Gordon Gee
President