| College is Possible |
| Member Schools |
| Making a Gift |
| Circle of Vision Scholarship Program |
| Leadership |
| Quick Facts |
| Lewis N. McManus Memorial Scholarship Fund |
| Economic Impact |
OUNDED:
West Virginia Independent Colleges & Universities (WVICU) was founded in 1951 by a group of business leaders who joined forces with West Virginia's independent colleges to promote the work of what were then the seven liberal arts colleges in the state. Corporate leaders believed that a collaborative effort for raising funds would strengthen the colleges and build a foundation for obtaining necessary resources.
WVICU, now celebrating its 57th year, provides undesignated and designated support to its nine fully accredited members. Since 1951, the consortium has provided over $33 million to the colleges it serves. These colleges represent 875 years of service to the State of West Virginia. Rooted in the liberal arts, the colleges' curricula afford opportunities for specialization in areas that respond directly to America's greatest needs.
Our member colleges possess excellence in both teaching and technology, low faculty- student ratios, high retention of students, and a unique, personal approach to education. These institutions teach students to master critical thinking skills, communicate effectively, gain an appreciation for the arts and humanities and a commitment to community service.
We invite you to explore our website and learn more about the colleges we serve. We are confident you will be impressed by the diversity of our member institutions and we hope you will visit them online and in person. Please call or email us if you have any questions or need additional information.
Mission:
The mission of WVICU is to champion independent higher education in West Virginia.
Vision:
The vision of WVICU states that independent higher education in West Virginia will be an accessible, indispensable and highly visible component of the State's educational, economic and cultural life.
Governance:
WVICU is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which is chaired by John Neuner. The board is comprised of college presidents of member institutions, corporate leaders and dedicated individuals. WVICU is administered by Rita Ray, executive director of the organization.
Operation:
The operating budget, based on a January 1 to December 31 fiscal year, is adopted annually by the full board. The Board of Directors constantly seeks ways to minimize costs while increasing sources of income for its member colleges.
NATIONAL AFFILIATION
The Foundation for Independent Higher Education (FIHE) is a national organization dedicated to broadening financial support and understanding of independent higher education and its contributions to the nation. WVICU is one of 35 similar state/regional associations affiliated with FIHE.
WVICU is a member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU). Tax Status:
WVICU is a tax-exempt, nonprofit West Virginia corporation. All contributions are tax- deductible in accordance with Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code.
Membership:
All nine not-for-profit private colleges and universities in West Virginia are members of WVICU. Each institutions is represented on the Board of Directors by its president.
Member schools include the following:
