PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) – The refurbishments at the former OVU Campus are almost finished.
West Virginia University Parkersburg (WVUP) and the Wood County Economic Development Authority (WCED) are collaborating as they prepare for the upcoming Innovation and Technology Center.
Lindsey Piersol, who serves as the executive director of the WCED, mentioned that the organization was granted funds by Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin. This support will aid in supplying more than 400 new windows along with 32 doors for the facility.
“I believe Dr. Tori Jackson was the driving force behind this initiative, with our office supporting her primarily through grant funding and managing some additional property,” Piersol stated.
Torie Jackson, who serves as the president of WVUP, outlines the various types of programs that will be offered at the center.
We offer several programs exclusively at this location,” Jackson stated. “These encompass computer science and computer information technology. Additionally, we’ll soon provide bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity and network administration. Starting this autumn, we’re introducing an engineering program, followed by a degree in cloud computing beginning next year, all available at this site.
Jackson mentioned that the initial and lowest level of the west wing in the complex is scheduled to open in August.
Jackson also mentioned that residence halls are set to be built on campus, courtesy of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation.
Jackson and Piersol are both thrilled about the development heading toward the new facility.
“I think this is a a generational change for Wood County,” Piersol said. “It addresses childcare, transportation, residential higher ed. An opportunity like this in the center of the county does not come along often. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am so excited that I get to work on it with Dr. Jackson, and we’re really excited for the community to be able to come and see what all has been done up here since they might have been up here when it was still OVU.”
“We’re very excited for what it’s going to do for education and for economic development in Wood County,” Jackson added.
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