Latest news with #BluefieldStateUniversity
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Effort to improve transportation in Bluefield moving ahead
bluefield – A town hall meeting set for June 12 will give the Bluefield community opportunities to share ideas and ask questions about a road project aimed at making travel smoother and safer from Bluefield State University's entrances to the city's northeast side. City Manager Cecil Marson said Friday the meeting will start at 1:30 p.m. June 12 on the Bluefield State University campus. It will be conducted in the Othello Harris-Jefferson Student Center. Information gleaned from the town hall will help determine how to spend a $1.2 million federal Reconnecting Communities grant. Reconnecting Communities is a program under the U.S. Department of Transportation. 'About two years ago we submitted an application for the Reconnecting Communities Grant,' Marson said. 'It's laser-focused on the northeast end of the city and what that does, it basically takes you from (Route) 52 where the Bluefield State University entryway is and takes you all the way through the northeast end past the Grant Street Bridge down past the Hotel Thelma.' The project's goal is to improve transportation and safety between the university and Hotel Thelma, which is an historic Green Book lodging where Black travelers stayed during the segregation era. 'The whole premise behind this project is to connect that part of the city to the downtown and also rework the road infrastructure and streetscape, really clean up a lot of the stuff that borders Norfolk Southern (railyard) along that main drag of Pulaski Street, Hardy Street all the way up to Rock Street and up to the campus,' Marson said. The city will work on the project in conjunction with the West Virginia Department of Highways. People attending the June 12 town hall will meet with highways officials and engineers working on the plan. Marson said the city wants as much community participation as possible. 'Because we're going to go in there, take all of the suggestions that have gotten us to this point, have some designs and schematics of what these roads could potentially look like and really, this plan grant is to get some of the engineering done and get everything prepped so this fall, we can submit for the implementation funding,' he said. 'And that's where we get the big money and hopefully, God willing, really get some of these projects down and revamp the northeast part of town and get the roads and infrastructure everybody deserves over there, and also help reinforce the college and give them a better entryway.' Darrin Martin, president of Bluefield State University, said the project would make travel to and from the campus safer. Both the Route 52 and Rock Street entrances are difficult to use and hazardous at times. 'Obviously, you think about the entrance way to campus on both sides,' Martin said. 'This is going to make it safer for us and improve the flow of traffic.' Students, faculty and visitors entering campus at Rock Street have to navigate a sharp turn. One goal would be make this curve 'softer,' Martin said. One part of the plan which includes a roundabout at the busy Route 52 entrance would make that entry point safer as well. 'It can get dicey,' he said. 'You can look and all of a sudden a car is on top of you. This should help and make that safer.' In September 2024, the City of Bluefield was awarded a $25,748,152 in federal grants through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the Safe Streets and Roads for All program. Marson said that the $1.2 million Reconnecting Communities grant is from a different federal program. 'Like the Safe Streets, all these grants kind of work this way,' Marson said. 'First, you apply for the grant because you have a project. The first portion is the planning, so you'll get a funding amount — that was $1.2 million for us — then you have to resubmit again for implementation. Implementation is where construction comes in and we're not there yet on this grant.' The project is big because it has been a long time since the city's northeast side has seen a major investment, Marson said. 'It's deserving. It needs it,' he said. 'We need to help the college, assist the residents, make it safer over there and clean up.' Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bluefield State University states its mining program suits President Trump's policies
BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) — Bluefield State University released a statement where administrators said their Mining Engineering Technology program 'perfectly aligns' with President Donald Trump's coal policies. According to a press release, the program, which is in its second year, is in step with President Trump's policies which emphasize that coal is essential to security of the nation's economy. Our Mining Engineering Technology program aligns with the goals of President Trump's coal initiative. The President aims to reduce federal regulations, promote coal use, boost exports, and ensure fair treatment of coal production in federal policy, all of which aim to increase coal production. Similarly, our program focuses on training skilled professionals who will help strengthen America's energy independence. Dr. Darrin Martin | President, Bluefield State University The degree program supports priorities laid out by President Trump through different approaches, the release stated. It addresses the shortage of mining professionals needed to put in place the President's goals for increased domestic coal production. Our students learn cutting-edge mining technologies and processes that align with the Administration's focus on efficient resource utilization. This includes training in automation, safety systems, and extraction methods that maximize production while meeting regulatory requirements. The program's emphasis on technological innovation ensures graduates can help modernize operations across the coal industry. Dr. Darrin Martin | President, Bluefield State University Bluefield art exhibit gives local student artists the spotlight The course of study also focuses on topics such as international standards and practices, preparing graduates to enter the workforce even in global markets. As domestic coal businesses aim to expand, graduates from Bluefield State will be equipped to meet the needs of these companies worldwide, the release noted. Students receive comprehensive training in environmental compliance and sustainable practices, equipping them to implement coal production methods that satisfy both energy needs and environmental standards. This balanced approach allows for the industry's growth while addressing regulatory requirements and stakeholder concerns. President Trump's policy recognizes what we've long understood at Bluefield State—coal remains fundamental to American energy security. Our program prepares professionals who can implement this vision through technical expertise and innovation. The program also prepares students for extraction of critical minerals—including lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and copper—supporting the Administration's broader strategy for American resource independence and supply chain security. Dr. Darrin Martin | President, Bluefield State University Bluefield State University introduces International Studies program Bluefield State University uses its strategic position to give students hands-on experience through partnerships with mining operations, the release stated. The training prepares to take part in the revitalization of the industry through the new policy directives. For generations, coal has been more than just a resource in southern West Virginia—it has been a way of life. Our Mining Engineering Technology program honors that legacy while preparing students to lead the future of the industry. Dr. Darrin Martin | President, Bluefield State University For more information about the program, as well as information on how to apply, visit the program's website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Bluefield State University introduces International Studies program
BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) – Students at Bluefield State University will have an opportunity to expand their horizons through the university's new International Studies program. The four-year degree program will prepare students for graduate studies in variety of fields including education, international affairs, homeland security, and more. While the program emphasizes preparing students for life after graduation, Bluefield State's Director for the Office of International Initiatives, Dr. Sudhaker Jamkhandi pointed out that the International Studies Program is ultimately about bringing people together. 'As long as we exist on this planet, there will always be a need for relations with folks in other countries. So here we are trying to groom folks not just in learning about their immediate community etc., but about the world,' he said. Bluefield State University hosts Spring Career Fair 'We can also learn much about not only who they are but about their nations, about their cultures, and sometimes even some conversational languages and so on just to say 'hello' and make a new friend. So that's what this is all about,' Jamkhandi added. Course registration for the upcoming summer and fall semesters at Bluefield State University will be open to all students beginning April 21. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bluefield State University hosts Spring Career Fair
BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) — Bluefield State University hosted its 36th Annual Spring Career Fair on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, drawing attendance from employers from around the state. Organized by Rebecca Hatch with the Bluefield State University Office of Career Services, this year's career fair provides an opportunity for students and prospective employees to establish relationships with employers in a variety of fields including energy, education, law enforcement, and more. Recent Bluefield State University graduate and event volunteer, Khadija Abdul-Wahid told 59News that the event brings opportunities to the community which may not have otherwise been available to local residents.'At the career fair you get to see a bunch of industries and career opportunities that you may not know were in the area,' she said. 'So this really kind of helps to open your eyes and helps with networking to get out there and get used to talking to people.'Director for the BSU Office of International Initiatives, Dr. Sudhakar Jamkhandi, Ph.D. noted the direct correlation between the university's mission and the success of its graduates in the workforce. 'In the end, whatever education Bluefield State has to offer is meant to take care of the needs of future employers in the public sector, in the private sector, and the non-profit sector,' said Dr. Jamkhandi. With another successful career fair in the books for Bluefield State University, another round of students are one step closer to finding their calling. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bluefield State University announces partnership for accelerated law degree program
BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) — Bluefield State University announced a partnership with the University of Akron School of Law for an accelerated degree program. According to a press release, Bluefield State University (BSU) partnered with the University of Akron (UA) School of Law to create an accelerated way for students seeking legal careers at BSU. Bluefield University announces grant to restore Alumni Hall dormitory The press release stated that the accelerated '3+3' program will help students at BSU to get their bachelor's degree and Juris Doctor (J.D.) in just six years instead of the usual seven, as students often earn their bachelor's degree in four years and then their Juris Doctor degree in another three years. This groundbreaking agreement between Bluefield State University and The University of Akron School of Law creates an incredible opportunity for our students to accelerate their path to a law degree. By streamlining the traditional timeline, this program enables students to save time and costs while receiving a top-tier legal education. We are thrilled to offer this pathway to our aspiring legal professionals and look forward to seeing them make a meaningful impact in the field of law. Dr. Tamara Ferguson | Dean of the College of Arts, Education and Social Sciences at Bluefield State University Two regional students receive full-tuition scholarship to Bluefield University We are pleased to offer affordable pathways to law school and a legal career for Bluefield State students. As a school of opportunity, we aim to create as many chances as possible for students to become lawyers. This partnership, which reduces part of the financial barrier, is an excellent starting point. Emily Janoski-Haehlen | Akron Law Dean The partnership will aid students at BSU in various ways, such as helping students save money on tuition and living expenses due to having one less year of undergraduate study, as well as being able to join the workforce before any of their peers who took a traditional path. The opportunity to join the workforce before their peers will help the students' earning potential in the long run and give their legal careers a head start. According to the press release, BSU students who qualify for the program can apply to Akron Law during their third year by applying through the Law School Admissions Council ( and taking the LSAT or the GRE exam. WVSOM students reach 100 percent residency match rate for third year in a row Students who are accepted for the program can complete their last year of undergraduate requirements by finishing their first-year law courses. The press release stated that other institutions that partnered with Akron Law on 3+3 programs include Franciscan University, Wilberforce University, Central State University, Kent State University, Walsh University, the University of Mount Union, Indiana Tech University, Robert Morris University, Youngstown State University, John Carroll University, and UA. Any students at Bluefield State University who may be interested in the 3+3 program are encouraged to contact their academic advisors for additional information on the application process and eligibility requirements. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
