West Liberty University is a forward-looking, four-year public university steeped in a rich heritage as West Virginias oldest institution of higher education. Established as West Liberty Academy in 1837 , it was created to respond to the need for higher educational opportunities west of the Appalachian ridge. The institution is named for the town in which it is located. West Liberty University will be the premier 4-year institution of higher learning in the Upper Ohio Valley by: providing its students with a high-quality education wherever and however courses are delivered that will prepare them for employment in current and future job markets or for continuing their education; achieving excellence in all facets of university life, including academics, student experiences, athletics, and the visual and performing arts; providing a comprehensive and significant liberal arts foundation wherever and however courses are delivered that will prepare its students to communicate effectively, think critically, and assume roles as productive citizens of the global community; emphasizing high-quality professional relationships between students and faculty through excellent instruction in any format or location and advising; standing as a vigorous and vibrant source for the creation of knowledge through innovative and creative research and scholarly activity; facilitating vibrant relationships with the surrounding community through social, civic, and economic engagement activities; and supporting a safe campus environment that encourages diversity and inclusion for all members of the WLU community.