West Virginia Wesleyan College And Battlers Knob Announce Partnership

Slightly more than a year ago, Alderson Broaddus University closed its doors for good, and the faith of the property and the future of Philippi was unknown. At the end of January, Battlers Knob LLC purchased the property and slowly started opening the doors – first with Burbick Hall, where most of the offices have been since filled with various organizations and businesses. Erickson Alumni Center reopened as a lodging facility, and has been very popular among travelers and visitors, as well as alumni who have now been coming to visit the old stomping grounds. Wilcox Chapel and Heiner Hall have been the site of the events, graduation receptions, birthday parties, and community events, drawing people from the area to top of the hill. Rex Pyles Arena and football stadium have also hosted numerous events, and multiple schools had their pre-season and band overnight camps on campus as well.

On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, a joint press conference by Battlers Knob LLC and West Virginia Wesleyan College was held at the Burbick Hall, announcing the future collaboration with two entities, which will include offering variety of educational opportunities. WVWC President Moore expanded on it, alluding to expansion of allied health degree programs, and mentioned the state’s critical need in positions of nursing, physician assistants, and mental health professionals.

Moore mentioned Robbie Morris, WV Wesleyan alum, who facilitated the meeting between Craig Phillips, owner of Battlers Knob LLC, and the WV Wesleyan administration. Call to action was put out to industry, healthcare, community, educational sector, and entrepreneurs to partner up in order to move as fast as possible to fill the critical shortages in several sectors in the state.

Cheri Sturm, the manager of Battlers Knob LLC property. “One of the main goals since day one,” she said, “was to expand on the history of Alderson Broaddus, and bringing some kind of educational program back to campus.”

More detailed information about the plans will be available in the near future.