we’ re preparing students to meet industry expectations and supporting regional economic development.”
The café will be integrated into the academic curriculum with operations tied to core courses such as internship. Students will rotate through various roles, including barista, cashier, prep cook and expediter, to build a well-rounded skill set.
Students participate in a class session inside the kitchen lab at Middletown Commons.
“ We’ re so excited about this grant because it gives us the chance to take our program to the next level,” says Natalie Feltz, associate professor of culinary arts and program director of culinary arts and pastry and baking arts.“ The café will let our students experience the same challenges and expectations they’ ll face in real life but in
a supportive learning environment. It’ s hands-on training that truly prepares them for the workforce.”
Pierpont is partnering with Taylor McCartney of The Groove Coffee Shop to assist with barista training, menu development and launch planning. The project began on October 1, 2025, with full integration into the curriculum by January for the Spring 2026 semester.
West Virginia Students Receive Gift of Hands-On Learning
BHE Renewables and the STEAM Technical Assistance Center( STEAM TAC), part of the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative( WVPEC) at West Virginia University, launched the Bright Ideas solar and battery storage immersion classroom experience on September 25, 2025, at Ripley and Ravenswood middle schools. Students used Snap Circuit kits to build their own solar-powered circuits, gaining practical experience with key electricity concepts such as voltage, current and resistance and electrical safety.
Through hands-on activities, students learned how solar panels collect and store energy and explored the range of careers involved in making a solar microgrid successful. This immersive approach helped students connect classroom learning to real-world advancements in their own communities. The Bright Ideas classroom immersion was the result of a year-long collaboration between solar energy experts from BHE Renewables and the educational team at STEAM TAC.
The Wonder of
Christmas
Where history shines and Christmas comes alive!
On Thursday, December 11, 2025, take an evening stroll in downtown Logan, WV, for a Historic Church Walk. Guided by nostalgic Christmas characters, guests will delight in hot chocolate, traditional treats and experience live entertainment that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas. End the night with a grand finale as a community choir fills the air with timeless carols— warming hearts and surrounding guests with holiday cheer.
Scan the QR code for details!
WWW. WVEXECUTIVE. COM FALL 2025 89