Exciting Campus Upgrades Await West Liberty University Students!

West Liberty University is making big changes this summer with $9.5 million invested in campus improvements. These upgrades include modern heating and cooling systems, new windows and doors, and enhanced academic spaces designed to enrich student experiences.

University President Tim Borchers emphasized the positive impact of these projects, saying, “The improvements made this summer will significantly improve the learning experience for our students.” Support from state and private sources has been crucial for these advancements.

The Hall of Fine Arts, the Academic, Sports, and Recreation Complex, and the Student Union will all get new HVAC systems. Additionally, Bonar and Curtis residence halls have installed new boilers. Twelve buildings on campus now feature energy-efficient doors and windows, boosting security and aesthetics. These upgrades are part of state funding aimed at tackling maintenance issues in West Virginia colleges and universities. Last summer, the university also replaced roofs on four buildings with funds from the same source.

One exciting addition is the Appalachian Aquatic Conservation Center (AACC), which opens this week. This center focuses on conserving endangered aquatic species like certain crayfish and turtles while promoting economic development in the Central Appalachian region. Dr. Zachary Loughman, a professor of biology, highlighted the center’s role in habitat restoration and its commitment to field-based research aimed at protecting local aquatic life.

Funding for the AACC comes from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection through an Abandoned Mine Lands grant, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for October.

Another significant project is the renovation of a lab in Arnett Hall, which will become the Hilltop Center for Biomedical Research. This facility will enhance laboratory space dedicated to scientific research. The lab includes eight research stations and encourages collaboration among students and faculty, paving the way for innovative discoveries. Funding for this project came from a competitive federal program backed by the National Institutes of Health.

The newly created Psychology and Communication Sciences Laboratory in Campbell Hall is part of the Interprofessional Healthcare Education Center. This facility aims to foster teamwork among students from various health fields, ultimately improving patient care. Its construction was funded by a special allocation from Congress in FY 2023.

Karen Kettler, Dean of the College of Sciences, expressed excitement about these developments, stating, “The Hilltop Center for Biomedical Research and the Psychology and Communication Sciences Laboratory will enhance opportunities for our students and faculty.” She believes these centers will lead to meaningful research and attract more innovative health education initiatives beneficial to West Virginia.

In summary, West Liberty University’s improvements reflect a commitment to enhancing educational facilities and supporting both student learning and community growth.



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Community,Campus improvements greet West Liberty University students