FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 20, 2026

FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College has unveiled a new brand centered on the concept of “Discover Your Path,” strengthening the institution’s commitment to guiding students toward meaningful career opportunities. Built to reflect Pierpont’s dedication to accessible and transformative education, the new direction emphasizes the pathways the college creates for learners across the region.

Interim President Dr. Michael Waide said the updated brand reflects the institution’s momentum, mission and long‑term vision.

“This updated brand direction reflects the momentum and independence Pierpont has built as we continue to serve students, employers and communities across our service region,” Dr. Waide said. “As we continue to expand our programs and strengthen workforce partnerships, this modern and forward‑looking identity helps us communicate the pathways we create for students and the role we play in supporting the region’s economic growth.”

The Office of Marketing and Communications began developing the new brand in-house after announcing the initiative during a May Advancement and Public Relations Committee meeting. To ensure the updated identity authentically represented the college and the region it serves, the team conducted focus groups, gathered community feedback and engaged key partners across the state. Guided by this input, the marketing team created two brand concepts that balanced tradition with the clarity and distinction needed for Pierpont’s continued growth.

Director of Marketing and Communications Stefanie Moore noted that the in‑house process ensured the new brand direction aligns closely with Pierpont’s mission and values.

“Developing Pierpont’s new brand in-house allowed us to create something authentic to Pierpont — something that reflects who we are and who we serve,” Moore said. “Through focus groups, community conversations and systemwide engagement, themes such as community, opportunity, pathways and personalization emerged consistently. The chosen direction introduces a brighter primary palette and a path‑framing element inspired directly by community feedback — highlighting opportunity and individualized pathways. Additionally, technical features such as the cut‑off on the ‘P’ were added to emphasize the technical programs Pierpont offers.”

The first option offered a refined refresh of Pierpont’s existing elements, while the second presented a comprehensive rebrand designed to strengthen visibility and modernize the college’s image. Both concepts were shared with college leadership and the broader community through a survey, and the resulting feedback was presented to the Board of Governors during a special meeting that also considered long‑term needs such as updated facilities signage and an in‑progress website rebuild.

On Feb. 11, the Advancement and Public Relations Committee met, followed by the full Board of Governors. Moore presented the two options to the committee, along with a resolution recommending one of the choices for Pierpont’s new branding. Following the committee meeting, Committee Chair Anthony Hinton presented the resolution during the full board meeting to approve the second brand option as the college’s new brand, and the motion carried.

“The Board was presented with two strong and thoughtful options, and the direction we approved positions Pierpont for long‑term distinction and impact,” Hinton said. “As we move forward with major initiatives, this brand gives the college the clarity it needs to reach students, strengthen partnerships and continue expanding opportunities across the region.”

The rollout will begin with digital and student‑facing priorities, including updated visuals across major platforms and the launch of a redesigned website in May. Additional branding updates will be implemented in phases over the coming year to support an efficient and coordinated transition.

Pierpont Community & Technical College provides accessible, responsive, and high‑quality education to students and businesses across North Central West Virginia. With a strong focus on career readiness and workforce development, Pierpont offers academic programs and industry‑aligned training that create clear pathways to employment. Through this work, the college helps students discover their path while supporting the region’s economic and workforce needs.

Media Contact:

Pierpont Community and Technical College

Office of Marketing and Communications

communications@pierpont.edu