WVU Parkersburg safety initiatives featured in ccjournal

Nov. 12, 2009

WVU Parkersburg featured in international community college journal.

CONTACT: WVU Parkersburg President Marie Foster Gnage, 304-424-8200.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

An article on campus safety initiatives at West Virginia University at Parkersburg is featured in the November 2009 issue of "Community College Journal of Research and Practice."

"Safety on a Rural Community College Campus via Integrated Communications," was authored by WVU Parkersburg President Marie Foster Gnage; Connie Dziagwa, executive director of institutional advancement, and Dave White, director of facilities/grounds and safety officer.

The Journal article outlines WVU Parkersburg's utilization of a two-way emergency broadcast system as a baseline for its campus emergency communications. Part of the institution's safety and crisis management plan, the system is integrated with other communication initiatives to provide focused security.

WVU Parkersburg was a finalist in the 2009 Community College Bellwether Award, a national exemplary recognition program. The November Journal issue features articles on best practices by the 30 Bellwether finalist institutions recognized at the 2009 Community College Futures Assembly. The assembly is a national think tank which convenes annually to articulate critical issues facing American community colleges and to recognize innovative Bellwether programs. WVU Parkersburg made a multi-media presentation at the assembly as part of the recognition program.

"Community College Journal of Research and Practice" is an international publication that serves as a forum for researchers and practitioners in higher education and the behavioral and social sciences. It promotes an increased awareness of community college issues by providing an exchange of ideas, research, and educational innovations.