West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission recognizes five leaders for improving educational outcomes for West Virginia students
Chancellor: Each of these awardees represents the very best of WV’s education system
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Higher Education Action and Impact Awards, honoring exceptional individuals, schools, and programs that have significantly advanced student success and postsecondary preparation throughout the state.
“Each of these awardees represents the very best of West Virginia’s education system,” said Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker, West Virginia’s Chancellor of Higher Education. “Their innovation, compassion, and dedication are creating pathways for students to achieve their goals and strengthen our state’s future. We are thrilled to recognize their achievements at this year’s Student Success Summit.”
This year’s honorees demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving educational outcomes for West Virginia students. Click here for more information about the West Virginia Higher Education Action and Impact Award.
Dr. Corley Dennison – Dan Crockett Higher Education Action and Impact Award
Dr. Dennison is recognized for his longstanding leadership in strengthening higher education in West Virginia. His efforts have included statewide reforms in developmental education, expansion of dual enrollment opportunities, and championing Open Educational Resources that have saved students millions of dollars in college text books and class materials. As Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, Interim President at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College, and a faculty member at Marshall University, Dr. Dennison has consistently prioritized student achievement and academic excellence.
Buffalo Middle School – Exemplary Middle School Award
Buffalo Middle School, led by Principal Elizabeth Ryder, has been honored for its outstanding work in helping students envision their futures beyond high school. Through Career Exploration Day, financial literacy simulations, academic enrichment activities, and strong participation in the Heart of Appalachia Talent Search (HATS) Program, the school promotes a robust postsecondary culture that helps students build confidence and career readiness.
Musselman High School – Exemplary High School Award
Musselman High School’s strong academic performance and college-going culture earned it recognition as this year’s Exemplary High School. With a graduation rate exceeding 97%, the school combines rigorous coursework, AP and dual credit offerings, and thriving Career and Technical Education programs with personalized counseling and planning. Programs like College 101, SAT prep courses, and scholarship workshops are preparing students for successful transitions after graduation.
Jamison Lewis – Student Action and Impact Award
Student leader Jamison Lewis has made a lasting mark at Marshall University through his leadership and initiative. His work on projects such as the Shark Tank Innovation Challenge and TEDxMarshallU and his charitable work with the Marshall Thrift Store highlight his creative approach to improving student life and career readiness. His involvement in campus planning and events has positively shaped the student experience for his peers.
WVU REACH Program – Institutional Action and Impact Award
The REACH Program at West Virginia University is honored for its effective support of student success. By offering services such as success coaching, academic assistance, leadership training, and campus engagement opportunities, REACH has helped improve student retention and graduation rates. The program models how institutions can create supportive environments that help students stay on track and achieve their goals.
This year, awardees were recognized at the 2025 West Virginia Student Success Summit in Charleston.