West Liberty, W.Va., September 8, 2023 - West Liberty University welcomed new first-year and transfer students to campus this fall with TopperFest, a two-week series of events designed to foster connections with each other and the university.
New first-year students were up 3% over the same time last year and new transfer students were up 4.5% after the first two weeks. The first-year class is the largest in the past four years and the University also enrolled a full cohort of students in its new doctoral program.
Forty-nine international students from 28 countries are attending West Liberty this fall.
“We are excited to welcome our largest incoming class in four years. It’s a true indication of our dedicated staff and faculty, a true team effort,” said Katie Cooper, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management. “We thank our entire staff engaged in this recruitment effort. Their commitment to our students throughout the summer leads to early success.”
TopperFest activities included the New Student Assembly, a block party, “Topper Wars,” and the Student Organization Fair.
“We always look forward to the energy and excitement our new students bring to campus when they arrive for Topperfest,” said Kate Billings, Director of Student Activities. “Offering a full slate of social events, Topperfest helps students get prepared and engaged for the coming academic year with their peers, faculty, and staff. From small group activities to large campus-wide programs, students have jumped in full force with Hilltopper spirit over the last two weeks.”
The events also included “Confection Connection,” a social event for new students hosted by President Tim Borchers and his spouse, Dr. Susanne Williams, at Colonial Heights, the President’s home on campus.
“We enjoyed getting to know some of the new students at our home. Forming connections with them to support their success is a key goal of mine this year,” said Borchers. “We look forward to hosting additional events for students at Colonial Heights.”
West Liberty University is West Virginia’s oldest public university, and it offers more than 70 undergraduate majors, plus a growing number of graduate programs, both online and on campus. Learn more at westliberty.edu.