Concord University Receives Grants from West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission to Enhance Educational Initiatives

Concord University Awarded Grants to Support Student Success

August 18, 2025

Mercer County, West Virginia – Concord University is set to receive vital financial support through recently awarded grants from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. The funding is specifically earmarked to bolster programs aimed at assisting first-generation college students.

The grants will be instrumental in providing resources that promote student retention and contribute to their overall academic achievement. University officials confirmed that the funds will directly address costs associated with vital field placement opportunities and foster stronger connections within the campus community.

Strengthening Support for First-Generation Students

these grants underscore a growing national focus on supporting students who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. According to a 2023 report by the Pell Institute, first-generation students frequently enough face unique challenges, including financial constraints and navigating unfamiliar academic systems. Pell Institute

Concord University faculty members emphasized that the new funding will directly tackle these barriers, creating opportunities for students to thrive.This includes assistance with expenses related to required field experiences, which are crucial for many academic programs.

Grant Breakdown

Grant Area	Focus
Retention Support	Programs to enhance student engagement and persistence.
Field Placement Assistance	Financial aid for costs associated with required field experiences.
connection Building	Initiatives to foster a stronger sense of community and mentorship.

Did You Know? Approximately one-third of all college students in the United States are first-generation, representing a significant portion of the higher education landscape.

Pro Tip: First-generation students can access a wealth of resources through their university’s financial aid office, academic advising center, and student support services.

The Growing importance of Supporting First-Generation Students

The success of first-generation students is critical not only for their individual growth but also for the overall economic and social mobility of communities. These students often return to their hometowns after graduation, bringing valuable skills and knowledge to address local challenges. Investing in their success, thus, yields benefits far beyond the college campus.

The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission’s commitment to supporting concord University exemplifies a broader trend of increased investment in student success initiatives across the nation. This investment recognizes that a well-educated workforce is essential for attracting businesses, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of life for all citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concord University Grants

• What is a first-generation student? A student is considered first-generation if neither of their parents completed a four-year college degree.
• How will these grants specifically help students? The grants will provide financial assistance for field placements and support programs designed to improve student retention.
• What is the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission? It is the coordinating body for higher education in West Virginia, responsible for developing policies and overseeing institutions.
• Why are field placements important for students? Field placements offer practical, hands-on experience and help students apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.
• Where can I find more facts about Concord University? Visit the University’s official website at https://www.concord.edu/

Do you believe increased funding for first-generation students is a worthwhile investment? What other resources could universities provide to better support these students?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What specific assistive technologies will be invested in to support students with disabilities?

Funding Breakdown & Allocation

Concord University has recently been awarded significant grants from the West Virginia Higher education Policy Commission (HEPC), bolstering its commitment to student success and academic innovation. These funds are earmarked for a variety of initiatives designed to improve educational quality and accessibility across multiple departments. The total grant amount, announced on August 18, 2025, is[InsertActualGrantAmounthere-[InsertActualGrantAmounthere-research needed], and will be distributed across three key areas:

STEM Education Enhancement: [Insert Specific Amount] will be dedicated to strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs. This includes upgrading laboratory equipment, supporting faculty advancement in cutting-edge teaching methodologies, and expanding research opportunities for undergraduate students.

Student Support Services: A significant portion, [Insert Specific Amount], will focus on enhancing student support services. This encompasses initiatives like expanded tutoring programs,mental health resources,career counseling,and financial literacy workshops.

Workforce Development Programs: [Insert Specific Amount] is allocated to developing and expanding workforce development programs aligned with the needs of West Virginia’s evolving job market. This will involve creating new certificate programs, strengthening partnerships with local businesses, and providing students with valuable internship experiences.

Impact on STEM Programs at Concord

The investment in STEM education is particularly noteworthy. Concord University aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields. Specific improvements planned with the HEPC grant include:

1. Modernized Labs: Upgrading chemistry, biology, and physics labs with state-of-the-art equipment. This will allow students to gain hands-on experience with the tools and technologies used in real-world scientific settings.
2. Faculty Training: Providing faculty with professional development opportunities focused on innovative teaching techniques, such as active learning and problem-based learning.
3. Undergraduate Research: Expanding undergraduate research opportunities, allowing students to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects. This fosters critical thinking skills and prepares students for graduate studies or careers in STEM.
4. New Curriculum Development: Introducing new courses and specializations within existing STEM programs to address emerging fields like data science and cybersecurity.

strengthening Student Support: A Holistic Approach

Concord University recognizes that academic success is often intertwined with students’ overall well-being. the HEPC grants will enable the university to provide a more thorough and holistic support system. Key initiatives include:

Expanded Tutoring Services: Increasing the availability of free tutoring services across a wider range of subjects.

Mental Health Resources: Adding counselors and expanding mental health services to address the growing need for student mental health support. This includes workshops on stress management and resilience.

Career Services Enhancement: Strengthening career counseling services, including resume workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs.

Financial Literacy Programs: Offering workshops and resources to help students manage their finances and avoid student loan debt.

Accessibility Services: Improving accessibility services for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities.

Workforce Development & Regional Partnerships

Concord University is committed to preparing its graduates for success in the West Virginia workforce. The HEPC grants will facilitate the development of programs that directly address the needs of local employers.

New Certificate Programs: Launching new certificate programs in high-demand fields, such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare technology, and renewable energy.

Industry Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide students with internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

Curriculum Alignment: Working with employers to ensure that curriculum is aligned with industry standards and skill requirements.

Skills Gap Analysis: Conducting regular skills gap analyses to identify emerging workforce needs and develop programs to address them.

Benefits for Students & the Community

These grants represent a significant investment in the future of Concord University and the surrounding community. The benefits are far-reaching:

Improved Student Outcomes: Enhanced academic programs and support services will lead to improved student retention, graduation rates, and career placement.

Skilled Workforce: A more skilled workforce will attract new businesses and investment to the region.

Economic Development: Workforce development programs will contribute to economic growth and diversification in West Virginia.

Increased Access to Education: Expanded support services will make higher education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Enhanced Research Capacity: Increased funding for research will position Concord University as a leader in innovation and discovery.

Concord University’s Commitment to Accessibility

Concord University is dedicated to providing an inclusive learning surroundings. The HEPC grants will support initiatives to enhance accessibility for all students, including those with disabilities. This includes:

Assistive Technology: Investing in assistive technology to support students with disabilities.

Global Design for Learning: Implementing universal design for learning principles in course development to make learning materials accessible to all students.

Accessibility Training: Providing training for faculty and staff on accessibility best practices.

* Dedicated Support Staff: Expanding the accessibility services team to provide individualized support to students with disabilities.