WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — For more than 15 years, chocolate rats have been a hallmark tradition of the West Liberty University Psychology Department. Each fall, psychology students partner with Merkins Chocolate, a small, family-owned business in Pennsylvania, to create the department’s signature rat-shaped treats, hand-crafted in a variety of flavors.

The tradition began as a tribute to longtime psychology professor Dr. David Linden, who led WLU’s rat experimental lab for many years. When the lab shifted toward human-behavior research, faculty and students sought a creative way to honor his legacy—and the chocolate rat fundraiser was born.

This year marked the most successful season in the fundraiser’s history. Students produced more than 1,600 chocolate rats in just two weeks, using nearly 300 pounds of chocolate and working out of the campus chapel kitchen. Proceeds from the sale support Psychology Club activities and help fund travel for nine students presenting their research at the Southeastern Psychological Association (SEPA) Conference in New Orleans.

“This year’s chocolate rat sales were held from Sept. 21 to Oct. 31,” said Dr. Natasha Godkin, faculty advisor. “Students ran the entire operation—from taking pre-orders to molding, packing, and preparing every single rat. It is quite the undertaking, and they manage it with remarkable teamwork and organization.”

The fundraiser’s impact extends beyond finances. Many students say the experience strengthens community, tradition, and connection within the major.

“Volunteering to make chocolate rats each fall has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow psychology students and build friendships,” said student Kayla Jeffers. “I’ve formed friendships with people I never would have interacted with otherwise.”

“Being a part of the chocolate rat fundraiser has been a highlight of my time at WLU,” added psychology major Kaelyn Oliver. “It’s something I look forward to every year because I get to spend time with my friends.”

Faculty also reflect on the tradition’s origins with pride.

“The chocolate rat fundraiser began as a playful way to recognize Dr. David Linden’s years leading the psychology rat research lab,” said Dr. Tifani Fletcher. “It remains a sweet reminder of his lasting influence, as well as Psi Chi and the Psychology Club’s creative spirit.”

“Creating and selling chocolate rats was our way of honoring Dr. Linden and keeping the spirit of the original lab alive,” said Dr. Tammy McClain. “It has become a fun and fitting tradition that our students continue with enthusiasm.”

Beyond fundraising, chocolate rats have become an unofficial ambassador for the department. They are shared during campus tours and prospective-student events as a symbol of WLU Psychology’s creativity, history, and sense of community.

And for those who missed this fall’s sale, there’s more to come: Psi Chi will offer chocolate brains for Valentine’s Day, including special limited-edition flavors.

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. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu