West Virginia University at Parkersburg proudly celebrated its 54th annual spring commencement on Saturday, May 10, marking a major milestone in the academic journeys of 383 graduates.
The event not only honored the accomplishments of these students but also broke a record, with 206 graduates participating in the ceremony — the highest attendance in the college’s history.
The ceremony began with an opening address by Blaine Hess, Vice Chair of the WVUP Board of Governors. Hess congratulated the graduates on their resilience and commitment, highlighting the diverse paths that brought each student to this important day. “This is not the end, but the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and opportunity,” he told the crowd.
Student Government Association President Isabella Hileman followed with a heartfelt message to her peers, sharing the emotional and academic challenges they had overcome. She reminded them that failures are not the end, but necessary steps toward a brighter future. “Remember that setbacks aren’t roadblocks but instead stepping stones,” she said.
WVUP President Dr. Torie Jackson welcomed graduates, families, and guests with enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of support systems in academic success. She praised the faculty, families, and friends who encouraged students to keep going. “We believe in you, and today, we all celebrate success with you,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address was Joe Oliverio, a lifelong educator, community leader, and former chair of the WVUP Board of Governors. Using the metaphor of scuba diving, Oliverio encouraged graduates to dive deep into life’s opportunities and challenges.
He urged them to find value in themselves and others, likening their worth to that of a penny—small in size but powerful in impact. “Just like pennies, you are worth more than you may imagine – and we need you to make the difference in our world,” he said.
Oliverio’s legacy includes over 40 years in education and public service. From teacher and principal to executive director and evaluator of college basketball officials, his impact spans both the classroom and the community.
He currently serves on the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education. Outside of work, he and his wife, Paula, share a passion for scuba diving and theater and have traveled to all seven continents.
This year’s graduating class earned a total of 480 academic credentials, including 349 associate and certificate degrees and 131 bachelor’s degrees. In addition, 66 students completed non-academic workforce development programs. The college also celebrated 63 graduates with cum laude honors, 54 with magna cum laude, and 30 with summa cum laude distinctions.
Several special recognitions were also awarded during the event. Honorary Bachelor of Arts degrees were presented to Donna Smith, JP Hushion, Jason Landers, and keynote speaker Joe Oliverio for their years of service as WVUP Board of Governors members.
Faculty honors included the Bernard P. McDonough Foundation Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year, which was awarded to Charles Almond, distinguished chair of entrepreneurship. Almond was praised for his innovative teaching methods and dedication to student engagement.
David Thompson, professor of psychology, was granted emeritus status for 20 years of service, honoring his deep contributions to the college community.
The 54th commencement ceremony not only celebrated academic achievement but also the enduring spirit of WVU Parkersburg—an institution committed to transforming lives and building brighter futures for students and their communities.
