The University is recognizing 10 exceptional employees as the inaugural class of Outstanding Mountaineer Award recipients, honoring those who go above and beyond in service to the University.
From teaching and advising students to supporting critical campus operations, these outstanding Mountaineers represent six units and colleges across the WVU System.
“Employees are truly at the heart of West Virginia University,” said Mario Barge, vice president of Talent and Culture and chief human resources officer. “This inaugural class reflects the dedication and care our employees bring to their work every day, often in ways that extend far beyond their job descriptions.”
Hailing from the WVU Athletics Department, Joe Swan is the senior director of publications and design. His loyalty and selfless support of WVU Athletics operations have a meaningful impact and strengthen the team every day.
Two honorees from the College of Applied Human Sciences who work to enhance student learning and success across the College were also recognized.
Sean Bulger, Chester E. and Helen B. Derrick CAHS Endowed Professor in the School of Sport Sciences, has worked to enhance the experience of his students day in and day out.
As a student success coordinator in the College’s Office of Student Success, Elizabeth “Liz” Rexroad’s deep commitment to advising students has changed the College for the better.
Keeping our campus running, four employees from the Facilities Operations team were honored.
Working with the WVU Athletics Department, Keith Barbe, a campus service worker lead, is recognized for his high-quality work and a positive, dependable attitude that makes him a trusted and valued member of the team.
Glen Blon, a trade maintenance mechanic, is one of the many dedicated employees who respond to campus facility emergencies at all hours of the day and night, ensuring the safety and continuity of University operations.
Mike Fox, an electrical operations manager, brings deep expertise in the University’s electrical substations and distribution systems. Combined with his collaborative personality, he has been an invaluable asset to the University.
As an administrative assistant, Marcie Milans strengthens the Facilities Operations team through strategic partnerships and major events, consistently bringing employees together and moving the unit forward.
Often working behind the scenes, Information Technology Services’s Rachel Nieman is “all in” for her team. As director of marketing and communications for the unit, Nieman possesses a positive, creative and curious attitude that helps WVU shine and uplifts fellow colleagues.
An employee in the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, Joshua Meadows is the executive director of Data Driven WV and a service assistant professor in the Department of Management Information Systems and Supply Chain. His work is a testament to the WVU land-grant mission, and his inclusivity and positive attitude leave a lasting impact on all who interact with him.
Rounding out the recipients, Karen Skaggs works as a senior administrative assistant at WVU Institute of Technology. Her willingness to go the extra mile makes her a dependable teammate who can always be counted on.
The Outstanding Mountaineer Award recipients were announced at Talent and Culture’s WVU Impact Award end-of-year event Wednesday (Jan. 21), where the University recognized the extraordinary contributions made by the dedicated faculty and staff who received a WVU Impact Award in 2025.
Selected by a committee of employees from across the University, the Outstanding Mountaineer Award is given annually to 7-10 recipients, chosen from the pool of WVU Impact Award recipients.
Senior leaders recognized more than 90 employees with a WVU Impact Award in 2025. View the online registry to see all WVU Impact Award honorees.
The WVU Impact Award program will continue in 2026. As part of the University’s commitment to employee recognition, the WVU Impact Award shines a spotlight on individuals across the WVU System whose excellence has made a lasting impact.
For more information on the WVU Impact Awards, visit the Talent and Culture website.