WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University’s Net Impact Chapter has been recognized nationally for its outstanding leadership and impact, earning Gold Status for the 2025–2026 year and being named a Finalist for the 2025 Net Impact Chapter of the Year Award.
Net Impact awards Gold Status to only about 30% of chapters worldwide each year, recognizing those that go above and beyond in their projects, community engagement, and communication with the global organization. This honor reflects the chapter’s exceptional performance during the 2024–2025 academic year.
In addition, West Liberty’s chapter has been selected as a finalist in the U.S. undergraduate category for the 2025 Net Chapter of the Year Award, based on activities from July 2023 through June 2024. This prestigious recognition celebrates chapters that demonstrate innovation, impact, and strong member engagement.
“Earning Gold Status reflects our students’ exceptional initiative and commitment to social impact. What sets WLU Net Impact apart is that, despite being a small campus with few active members, we achieved national recognition,” said Dr. Vishaka Maskey, faculty advisor for Net Impact. “I’m especially proud of Morgan and Ishika—whose leadership has made a lasting difference on campus and beyond. It’s been a privilege to support their journey.”
As part of this recognition, graduate student Ishika Agarwal will represent West Liberty at an in-person Net Impact workshop in Washington, D.C., from October 17–19, joining other emerging leaders from across the country to collaborate on sustainability, equity, and impact-driven initiatives.
The chapter’s accomplishments include events such as Environmental Education Day, a To-Go Eco Container collaboration with the Sustainability Club and Elior, and an Up to Us Fiscal Impact and Legislative Outreach event focused on economic sustainability.
As a finalist, West Liberty’s team will also submit a video and written reflection highlighting its projects and accomplishments from the past year. Winners will be announced later this fall and recognized through Net Impact’s website, social media, and events, along with up to $450 in support for chapter initiatives.
About Net Impact
Net Impact is a global network of more than 300 chapters in over 40 countries, empowering students and professionals to drive positive change through leadership, sustainability, and community action.
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
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Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
