West Liberty, W. Va. – West Liberty University students in CEP 442: Community Empowerment and Engagement spent the Fall 2025 semester turning classroom learning into community impact through a hands-on Problem-Based Learning (PBL) project in partnership with the West Liberty Lions Club Family Support Center (WLLCFSC).
Under the guidance of instructor Dr. Miriam Roth Douglas, students developed a comprehensive Health and Wellness Program designed to support rural regional members of the WLLCFSC community. The project emphasized practical, sustainable strategies tailored to local needs, reinforcing the university’s commitment to civic engagement and community collaboration.
“The problem-based project for this course allowed students to apply classroom concepts to real-world challenges by developing a Health and Wellness Program tailored for rural regional members of the community,” said Dr. Miriam Roth Douglas. “The ideas and solutions our students shared will have a lasting, positive impact when implemented, strengthening the center’s ability to serve families while deepening students’ understanding of how education can drive meaningful change.”
The student teams focused on four key areas of wellness identified in collaboration with WLLCFSC leadership:
• Healthy Habits / Nutritional Wellness
• Physical Fitness
• Mental Wellness Men’s Group
• Environmental Wellness for West Liberty
Throughout the semester, students conducted research, engaged with community partners, and created materials that included presentations, newsletters, and supporting resources. The semester culminated in a panel presentation to WLLCFSC representatives, where students shared their recommendations and implementation ideas.
“As a family center we cater to the wants and needs of the resident families. In a survey the families requested more information regarding health. Dr. Douglas’s students rose to the challenge,” said Wendy Robinson, Director of the WLLCFSC. “They had amazing ideas that will be put into practice in the community.”
To ensure broader access, the student presentations were recorded and shared with WLLCFSC board and community members who were unable to attend the live sessions. These materials will continue to serve as a resource as the organization explores future health and wellness initiatives.
“Partnering with the West Liberty Lions Club Family Support Center (WLLCFSC) through our CEP 442: Community Empowerment and Engagement course has been an incredible opportunity for experiential learning,” said Douglas.
The CEP 442 PBL project highlights West Liberty University’s ongoing efforts to connect academic learning with community needs, proving that when students and partners work together, everyone benefits.
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.
Media Contact
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
