West Liberty University Psi Chi Chapter Featured in National Publication

West Liberty, W.Va. — The West Liberty University chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, has been recognized in the national Eye on Psi Chi publication for its outstanding community service, creative fundraising, and campus engagement.

”Being the president of this amazing organization has shown me the value of teamwork, service, and community, and I feel fortunate to have worked with such amazing peers,” said Ann Lemley, chapter president. “The lessons I’ve learned here will stay with me well beyond college, shaping both my career and personal life.”

In February 2025, Psi Chi members organized a Valentine’s week fundraiser in the WLU Student Union. Members handcrafted and sold chocolate “brains,” raising $426 for The Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation. The charity was selected through a chapter-wide vote, reflecting Psi Chi’s commitment to uniting academic curiosity with service to humanity.

Earlier in the academic year, in November 2024, the chapter launched a clothing drive to support Street Moms, a local nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness. With poverty and homelessness continuing to impact Wheeling and other West Virginia communities, members collected warm clothing to help vulnerable residents prepare for the harsh winter months.

“Serving the local community has always been important to me so, as the WLU Psi Chi philanthropy chair I take great responsibility and pride into planning events for fellow members to be able to give back to the community,” said Kaelyn Oliver. “It has been an immensely rewarding experience and it has set me up for future successes beyond college.”

The chapter also focused on campus engagement, partnering with the West Liberty Psychology Club at the University’s annual Organization Fair on September 4, 2024. This event provided students across campus the opportunity to explore clubs and honor societies while showcasing the benefits of Psi Chi membership, including professional development, service opportunities, and networking in the field of psychology.

“I am incredibly proud of our Psi Chi students for earning the model chapter recognition. Their dedication to service, scholarship, and leadership reflects the very best of West Liberty University,” said Dr. Natasha Godkin, Assistant Professor of Psychology and organization advisor. “This honor highlights not only their commitment to psychology, but also their desire to make a positive difference in our community. Watching them grow as scholars and leaders has been one of the most rewarding parts of being their advisor.”

Founded in 1929, Psi Chi is the world’s largest honor society in psychology, with more than 800,000 lifetime members across 1,150 chapters worldwide. Its mission is to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship and to advance the science of psychology. West Liberty University’s chapter continues to embody this mission through meaningful initiatives that support both the campus community and the greater Wheeling region.

The chapter looks forward to continuing its mission of advancing psychology through scholarship, leadership, and service, while highlighting the values of 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 wlibertydev.wpenginepowered.com/.

Media Contact
Theresa Gretchen
West Liberty University
tgretchen1@westliberty.edu