West Virginia State University will celebrate a milestone on May 9 as it graduates its first cohort from the Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies program. Fourteen students will receive their degrees during the commencement ceremony, marking the university’s transition to offering doctoral-level education.
This event is significant for both the university and the region, as it represents WVSU’s expansion into advanced academic programs for working professionals. The fully online, two-year Ed.D. program is designed to support those already employed in fields such as K–12 education, school leadership, higher education, student services, state government, and nonprofit organizations.
“Four years ago we had a bold vision of transitioning West Virginia State University to a doctoral degree granting institution,” said Ericke S. Cage, President of West Virginia State University. “Graduation of this inaugural cohort represents the culmination of that vision and showcases the mission of our university in action; developing leaders who are equipped to create meaningful change in their organizations and communities.”
The graduating class includes professionals from various regions including Kanawha Valley, Morgantown, Weston, Tucker County in West Virginia as well as Atlanta and Cincinnati areas. Each student balanced full-time work with rigorous academic requirements while completing dissertations focused on real-world problems within their workplaces.
Research topics among graduates included strengthening student engagement and belonging, improving teacher retention and morale, enhancing instructional leadership practices, expanding access to inclusive learning environments, improving organizational communication effectiveness, and increasing stakeholder understanding for key initiatives. The program emphasizes practice-based research allowing candidates to implement evidence-informed solutions directly into their professional settings.
Collaboration was also highlighted within this inaugural group through structured groups that provided feedback exchange and peer support throughout the dissertation process. This collaborative environment has contributed not only to academic achievement but also professional growth among participants.
