CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Glenville State University has a long history of producing a number of teachers throughout West Virginia, but throughout its 154-year history, it has grown to more than just a “teachers’ college.”
That is what Glenville State University President Mark Manchin was impressing upon lawmakers Tuesday at the state capitol.
“I want to move, and we still have to provide teachers, and we still have a quality education program. But we’re moving more and more towards health sciences. We created a new undergraduate degree last year for health sciences that has seven different subclasses, including pre-med, pre-dental, PT, health administration,” Manchin said on MetroNews “Talkline.”
Manchin emphasized the university’s efforts to address rural healthcare, including training additional healthcare workers for small communities and addressing the state’s immediate needs.
“Two of the greatest needs in the state of West Virginia right now are nurses and teachers. And we’re well-positioned. We’re working to make sure that we can provide what’s necessary to provide for the citizens of West Virginia,” Manchin said.
“What we found is that if you train them in these small communities, they potentially stay in these small communities. So we’re excited about that.”
New building projects, such as the state-of-the-art Morse Family Health and Fitness Complex, will house the health sciences. He also noted the renovations to athletic facilities, including the football stadium, which is expected to be completed for the upcoming season.
Manchin also noted the cooperation with other state institutions, including WVU and Marshall, putting the best interests of students and the state first.
“We’re all in this together. And if we only say it’s just peculiar, just to our needs and what we’re trying to do, then you’re not going to be successful. But if we all collaborate together working, I think we have a much better chance of being successful,” said Manchin.
Manchin and the contingent from Glenville State had planned on meeting with lawmakers on Jan. 27, but the winter storm that enveloped the entire state postponed the annual visit.