WVU-P's Future

It would be the understatement of the year to say representatives from West Virginia University at Parkersburg were disappointed with Thursday's decision by West Virginia University's Board of Governors to only offer a two-year contract for use of the flagship university's name and logo.

The WVU board decided to allow WVU-Parkersburg to continue using the name and the instantly recognizable "Flying WVU" logo until 2011. At that time, a new contract would have to be negotiated.

WVU-Parkersburg hoped for a much longer deal, one which would allow for stability in the local operations. Board members at WVU "feel they need to protect the trademark," said WVU-Parkersburg board Chairman Joe Campbell. "I respect that, but it doesn't help us achieve a long-term solution."

There is no doubt WVU-Parkersburg has flourished under the WVU umbrella.

Enrollment is up, largely because of an increased number of four-year bachelor degrees offered at the school. This allows many Mid-Ohio Valley students to live at home and attend classes during the day, offering a degree opportunity to many who otherwise might not be able to attend college.

School officials note the campus experience is now richer with concerts, lectures and other events found at more traditional four-year institutions.

And the college has done this without losing its role in vocational and retraining programs-an amazing feat.

While WVU-Parkersburg obviously benefits, it is not entirely a one-way street. Many students attending school here go on to Morgantown to complete the final two years of their studies. In addition, the name gives area residents a special bond with WVU that transcends geographical distances. Most students-and residents - feel WVU is a part of the Parkersburg community, not just the community of Morgantown. We hope that WVU would look beyond this parochial thinking that Morgantown is the home of the university.

However, we recognize WVU is doing what it believes is best for WVU. But is WVU doing what is best for West Virginia students?

While WVU-Parkersburg has made major strides in the past decade through its affiliation with WVU, the school will continue to be a success no matter what it is called. It has found a niche.

The board at WVU-Parkersburg will meet Monday to discuss a response to the offer. Unless there is intervention from the governor, the school probably has no choice but to accept it. Members also should be considering the future of the school-one that may not include WVU.