Skip to main content

About the Division of Student Life

Creating an extraordinary and transformative experience for every WVU student.

Our Mission

Empowering every Mountaineer to thrive by providing the support, resources, and community they need to grow, succeed, and make a lasting impact.

Our Goals

  1. Create a Vibrant Campus to Call Home

    Offer a mix of great events and programs to help students make the most of their time here and build memories that complement their studies.

  2. Build a Community Where Everyone Belongs

    Create a space where we welcome different perspectives and help students build meaningful connections, even when they don't see eye-to-eye.

  3. Prioritize Well-being and Growth

    Foster health-promoting habits, safe and supportive environments, and accessible resources that enable students to flourish.

  4. Advance Leadership and Engagement

    Encourage students to take the lead in shaping their campus experiences and the broader community.

  5. Value the Effort and Experiences of Every Journey

    Celebrate the grit it takes to overcome challenges and the hard work students put into their roles and passions, equipping them for a successful life and career.

The Mountaineer Creed

"As a Mountaineer, I will practice academic and personal integrity, value wisdom and culture, foster lifetime learning, practice civic responsibility and good stewardship, & respect human dignity and cultural diversity. In order to become a meaningful member of West Virginia University and the society in which I live, I dedicate my energy, my talents, and my intellect to these standards of excellence."

STUDENT LIFE BY THE NUMBERS

450+ Student Organizations
30 Dining locations across the Downtown, Medical and Evansdale campuses

“We are excited to walk alongside your student as they begin their journey at WVU. Our Student Life team is here to create a welcoming, enriching, and truly transformative experience for them-- every single day they’re part of the Mountaineer family. ”

— Gary G. Furbee, II and Carrie Showalter

Meet Our Senior leadership Team

Get in touch with us or get to know our team.

Gary G. Furbee, II

Gary G. Furbee, II

Vice President Student Life

View Contact Info: Gary G. Furbee, II
Carrie Showalter

Carrie Showalter

Dean of Students and Associate Vice President Student Life

View Contact Info: Meet the Dean of Students
Chris's portrait

Chris Schmoldt

Executive Director Student Union & Operations

View Contact Info: Chris Schmoldt
Nathan's portrait

Nathan Harlan

Executive Director Experiential Programming & Services

View Contact Info: Nathan Harlan
Olivia's portrait

Olivia Pape

Interim Assistant Dean Student Well-being

View Contact Info: Olivia Pape
Thanh's portrait

Thanh Le

Assistant Dean Student Engagement and Leadership

View Contact Info: Thanh Le