Olivia Reeder appointed Vice President of Institutional Advancement at WVU Parkersburg

Parkersburg, W.Va. (March 12, 2025) — Olivia Reeder, former dean of Early College at WVU Parkersburg, has been named Vice President of Institutional Advancement, a role previously occupied by President Dr. Torie Jackson.

“What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to give back to the institution that shaped me. As a former scholarship recipient, WVU Parkersburg played a pivotal role in my journey, and now I have the chance to help provide those same opportunities for future students,” Reeder said. “Serving both our students and the college through fundraising, community partnerships, and engagement efforts is incredibly meaningful to me. This institution made me who I am today, and I’m honored to be in a position to support its growth and impact.”

Reeder will continue to serve as Dean of Early College until a successor is named and will also maintain her position as CEO and President of the WVU at Parkersburg Foundation.

“When I found out I got the position, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement,” Reeder said. “Working at WVU Parkersburg has always been my dream job, and this college has truly changed the trajectory of my family. To have the opportunity to give back in such a meaningful way is an incredible honor.”

A proud alumna of WVU Parkersburg and a third-generation graduate, Reeder has dedicated her career to advancing higher education, student success, and community engagement in the Mid-Ohio Valley. With a background in marketing, recruitment, and institutional development, she has successfully led initiatives in strategic communication, fundraising, and student retention.

“Reeder will bring a well-rounded mix of marketing expertise, student engagement, fundraising acumen, entrepreneurial thinking, and leadership skills,” President Dr. Torie Jackson said. “She has a clear vision for innovation in recruitment, philanthropy, and student involvement while demonstrating strong conflict resolution, team building, and community outreach abilities.  Her deep personal connection to WVUP and commitment to first-generation and Appalachian students further enhances her fit for this role.”

Reeder has been instrumental in creating student outreach programs and workforce development partnerships as Dean of Early College. Notably, she led the “What’s Your Thing?” initiative aimed at middle school students and played a key role in major fundraising campaigns. Under her leadership, the WVU Parkersburg Foundation expanded its student success initiatives.

“Olivia Reeder has been an excellent leader as our Dean of Early College, shaping programs that have made a real difference for students. Her passion, vision, and ability to build strong partnerships make her the wonderful choice for Vice President of Institutional Advancement,” said Dr. David Lancaster, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “I’m excited to see all she will accomplish in this new role.”

Reeder is deeply involved in the Mid-Ohio Valley, serving as president of the Parent Volunteer Association at Parkersburg Catholic Schools and in leadership roles at Downtown PKB and the Mid-Ohio Valley Chamber of Commerce. She was also named a WV Living Class of 2024 Wonder Woman.

“In my new role, I will be leading WVU Parkersburg’s Institutional Advancement efforts, which include fundraising, alumni relations, marketing, and community engagement. I’ll be working alongside the many talented professionals in recruitment, marketing, and other areas of IA to strengthen partnerships, increase philanthropic support, and enhance the college’s visibility” Reeder said. “Together, we will develop initiatives that expand student opportunities, build connections with alumni and donors, and align advancement efforts with the college’s strategic goals. Our collective work will ensure WVU Parkersburg continues to grow and serve as a vital resource for students and the community.”

Reeder holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration and Public Relations from WVU Parkersburg, an M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communication from West Virginia University, and is a doctoral candidate in Higher Education Leadership at Valdosta State University. Her research focuses on student retention and success, particularly for first-generation students, with an emphasis on dual credit programs in Appalachia.

Reeder resides in Parkersburg, W.Va., with her husband, Dylan, and their two sons, Luke and Logan. She enjoys cooking with her family, traveling, and creating meaningful experiences that connect people to their communities.

“My vision for Institutional Advancement at WVU Parkersburg is to build a strong culture of philanthropy and engagement that directly supports student success, innovation, and community impact. By aligning fundraising and partnership efforts with the college’s strategic goals, we can expand scholarships, enhance student support, and develop programs that meet workforce needs,” Reeder said. “Strengthening alumni connections and community partnerships will also be key in driving long-term growth. Ultimately, every advancement initiative will be focused on increasing access to education and creating meaningful opportunities for our students.”