Pictured, left to right, are WLU Provost Dr. Cathy Monteroso, WLU Foundation Executive Director Betsy Delk, Appalachian Power External Affairs Manager Erikka Storch, and WLU President Dr. Tim Borchers.
WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., January 7, 2025 – The West Liberty University (WLU) Foundation is pleased to announce a generous $20,000 grant from the AEP Foundation to support the creation of the Aviation Active Learning Space/Collaborative Classroom in Main Hall on the WLU campus. This state-of-the-art connected classroom will provide advanced technology to seamlessly link West Liberty University with the Bill Noe Flight School at Marshall University, facilitating innovative and experiential learning opportunities for aviation students.
The new Aviation Center Connected Classroom will serve as a critical component of WLU’s partnership with Marshall University and the Wheeling-Ohio County Airport. This collaboration establishes WLU as a joint degree program with Marshall University and the Bill Noe Flight School, addressing the growing demand for professional pilots and creating unique opportunities for students in the region to pursue flight training.
“The AEP Foundation’s generous support helps us provide students with the advanced facilities and technology they need to succeed in high-demand fields like aviation,” said WLU President Dr. Tim Borchers. “This project will not only support our aviation students but will also enhance the experiential learning opportunities that are at the core of our mission. By offering a connected classroom, we are ensuring that our students can have a complete college experience while participating in a cutting-edge program.”
This project aligns with WLU’s strategic goals by addressing workforce needs in high-demand professions and upgrading campus technology and facilities. By providing a seamless connection between on-campus instruction and the expertise of the flight school, WLU ensures that students receive a comprehensive and high-quality educational experience while pursuing their aviation dreams.
The West Liberty University Foundation expresses its gratitude to the AEP Foundation for its commitment to advancing education and workforce development in the region.
About West Liberty University
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
About AEP Foundation
The American Electric Power Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic organization, is funded through shareholder dollars by American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) and its operating subsidiaries, including Appalachian Power. The Foundation provides a permanent, ongoing resource for charitable initiatives in the communities served by AEP and initiatives outside of AEP’s 11-state service area. The AEP Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math and by meeting basic needs for emergency shelter, affordable housing, and the elimination of hunger. Other Foundation support may be offered to protect the environment, promote healthcare and safety, and enrich life through art, music, and cultural heritage.
