The Campus Self Defense Act will take effect on July 1, 2024 throughout the state of West Virginia. This law will allow for any individual who possesses a valid concealed carry permit or provisional concealed carry permit within the state of West Virginia will be permitted to carry a concealed handgun on a college campus within the state of West Virginia. The law itself does allow for exceptions in specific locations and during specific events, which adds to the complexity in understanding and interpretation.
West Liberty University is committed to the safety of our campus community and all faculty, staff, students and guests. In an effort to ensure the safety of our campus, a Campus Carry Task Force began meeting in the fall semester of 2023 to make recommendations to campus decision makers regarding policy and procedures for the implementation of this new law. One element of this team’s efforts is in educating the campus community on the policies and procedures as we move forward. We will continue to use this site to share information and updates on the Campus Self Defense Act and the University’s implementation plan.
Online Educational Resources:
WLU Campus Carry Training (Spring 2024)
Firearms’ Storage Registration Form
FAQ for Campus Self Defense Act
Senate Bill 10: Campus Self Defense Act
On the Mark: A Guide to Concealed Handgun Laws in WV (June 2019)
WV State Police FAQ (including questions on concealed carry permits)
WLU Student Policy: Weapons Policy and Procedures (effective July 1, 2024)
WLU Employee Policy (coming soon)
WLU Weapons Storage Facility Policy (coming soon)
WLU Counseling Services for students, including access to BetterMynd telehealth
Behavioral Intervention Team Information and Referral
FEMA: Run Hide Fight Protocol and Information (active shooter response)
ALICE Training (active shooter response)
Campus Carry Task Force
A Campus Carry Task Force was created in fall 2023 and meets monthly to develop recommendations for policy, implementation, facilities, resources, and plans for the Campus Carry law. The task force is comprised of individuals from stakeholder groups, including students, faculty, and staff. Additional individuals have been included as needed to review specific topics in the implementation and planning processes. The task force members include:
- Patrick Kelly, Director of Purchasing/Safety Committee Chair (Task Force Chair)
- Kate Billings, Director of Student Activities/Title IX Coordinator
- Melissa Carroll, Chief Human Resources Officer
- Ronald Fox, Chief of WLU Police
- Becky McCullough, IT Manager
- Joe Mills, Director of Physical Plant
- Loren Mort, Animal Care Coordinator for College of Sciences
- Derek Roehner, Student/SGA Vice President
- Anthony Salatino, Safety Director
- Marcella Snyder, Executive Director of Housing & Student Life/Student Conduct
- Madelyne Vanmatre, Student/Housing and Residence Life GA for Student Conduct
- Lisa Witzberger, Director of Counseling Services