News

By Raimah Hossain, Honors Student Ambassador

Dr. Bill Collins and his wife, Karen.

The Honors College recently had a chance to catch up with Thaiddeus “Ted” Dillie, a class of 2020 West Virginia University and Honors College graduate. Ted graduated with a bachelor of science in biochemistry, a major which is a collaboration between the Davis and Eberly Colleges.

Ted, a Weirton, West Virginia native, was exposed to strong WVU pride throughout his childhood, so his decision to attend college here was not a difficult choice. However, as a first-generation college student, navigating the waters at such a big university was an adjustment for Ted. Ted said his experiences with the Honors College and within his major allowed him to have a rich and unique experience at WVU, one he hopes to continue in his future.

Dr. Ashley Watts coordinates the mentoring and tutoring programs in the West Virginia University Honors College and is the faculty sponsor for the Mountaineer Tutoring Network. She also serves as the academic advisor for exploratory students in the Honors College, helping those students consider their interests and options across WVU.

Dr. Watts was recently awarded the Outstanding Advisor Award from the Honors College, and also serves as a certified Gallup CliftonStrengths Coach, helping Honors students discover their strengths and how to use them to be successful in college and beyond.

The Honors College recently had the chance to sit down and chat with the Honorable Thomas Kleeh, District Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia. Judge Kleeh joined the Honors Program at West Virginia University in 1992 and graduated with a bachelor of science in business administration with an emphasis in accounting in 1996.

Kleeh discussed influential classes and people he encountered throughout his time with the Honors Program that continue to shape his life to this day.

Through the Honors College Summer Reading Assignment, you will think critically, consider all  options in order to make the best possible decision, and work toward becoming the best version of yourself. Active reflection, after all, is a huge piece of what college is all about, and what makes the college experience something that is invaluable and life changing.

The Girl Who Smiled Beads by Clemantine Wamariya and Elizabeth Weil has been selected for the Campus Read at WVU. All students should read this fantastic book during the summer months. As an Honors student, we ask that you delve into the material a little deeper and reflect on the book before starting your classes this fall.