On July 1, Beverly Wendland will officially step into her role as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at West Virginia University. She recently visited the Morgantown Campus and expressed her eagerness to connect with the community. “I feel so much passion and excitement from the faculty, staff, students, and everyone in the Mountaineer family,” Wendland shared.
Wendland comes with a wealth of experience from a national search, having served in various roles such as a faculty member, department chair, dean, and provost. With her extensive background, she understands the essential role of academics in a university. “Academics are the heart of a university—it’s about the faculty, the students, and the programs we offer,” she said. “I feel honored and excited to take on this big responsibility.”
Wendland emphasizes her approachability, wanting faculty and staff to share their thoughts and concerns. “I want to know what they think and how I can help,” she noted. This attitude may help foster a more collaborative environment as she begins her tenure.
Recent studies show that leadership style greatly impacts university morale and academic performance. A report from the Chronicle of Higher Education found that nurturing leadership leads to increased faculty satisfaction and student engagement. Wendland’s commitment to openness could align well with these findings, potentially creating a positive atmosphere at WVU.
Social media reactions have been largely positive. Many are excited about her vision for the university and the fresh energy she brings. On platforms like Twitter and Facebook, incoming students and alumni have voiced their support, highlighting a shared hope for growth and innovation.
To learn more about Beverly Wendland, check out her profile on WVUToday. You can also catch her interview on MetroNews, where she discusses her plans and aspirations for WVU: Listen here, and don’t miss the video interview on Facebook: Watch now.
