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Four higher education leaders sit on stage during a panel discussion at the NCWV Business Summit. From left: Dr. Greg Kuhns, Michael Benson, Dr. Michael Waide, and Dr. Michael Davis
From left: Dr. Greg Kuhns, Michael Benson, Dr. Michael Waide and Dr. Michael Davis participate in the Higher Education Presidents Panel at the NCWV Business Summit.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2025

Fairmont, WV — Interim President Dr. Michael Waide represented Pierpont Community & Technical College at the 10th Annual Bridges Without Boundaries NCWV Business Summit, held today at the High Technology Foundation. Dr. Waide joined the Higher Education Presidents Panel alongside Dr. Michael Davis, president of Fairmont State University; Michael Benson, president of West Virginia University; and Dr. Greg Kuhns, dean of education at Salem University.

The panel discussion centered on the state of higher education in West Virginia, with Dr. Waide emphasizing Pierpont’s role in expanding access and preparing a skilled workforce in North Central West Virginia.

A large audience listens to a panel discussion at the NCWV Business Summit, with the session projected on a screen at the front of the room.
Attendees gather for the 10th Annual NCWV Business Summit, featuring a panel discussion on the state of higher education in West Virginia.

Dr. Waide shared several key initiatives that reflect Pierpont’s commitment to student empowerment and workforce readiness:

  • WV Invests Grant Funding: Pierpont has awarded more than $1.7 million in WV Invests Grant funding for the 2024–25 academic year. This last-dollar-in program helps West Virginians earn degrees and certificates in high-demand fields — often tuition-free — directly addressing financial barriers to higher education.
  • Learn and Earn Program: The college continues to lead in workforce integration through the Learn and Earn program, a state-funded initiative that combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on job training. Students earn at least $15 per hour while gaining experience in their field, and employers benefit from a pipeline of skilled talent.
Nancy Parks and Jennifer McConnell sit behind a Pierpont Community & Technical College information table at the NCWV Business Summit.
Nancy Parks (left), associate vice president of student services, and Jennifer McConnell (right), executive director of admissions, recruiting and student engagement, represent Pierpont Community & Technical College at the NCWV Business Summit.

The panel also addressed the broader challenges students face beyond academics. Dr. Waide emphasized that many students struggle with basic needs, including food security, housing stability, mental health concerns, and limited broadband access.

In response, Pierpont is fostering communities of belonging and creating intentional spaces where students feel supported. Resources such as the Counseling Center help students navigate these challenges and stay focused on completing their credentials. In addition, Student Services regularly hosts free food events and off-campus events where students can bring a friend. Each semester, the college also organizes a bus trip to give students a chance to connect, explore, and recharge outside the classroom.

Dr. Michael Waide speaks into a microphone during the Higher Education Presidents Panel as Dr. Michael Davis listens beside him.
Dr. Michael Waide (left) speaks to the audience as Dr. Michael Davis listens during the Higher Education Presidents Panel at the NCWV Business Summit.

“Pierpont is more than a college. It’s a community,” said Dr. Waide. “We’re committed to meeting students where they are and helping them succeed, both in the classroom and in life.”

Media Contact:
Pierpont Community and Technical College
Office of Marketing and Communications
communications@pierpont.edu