As we welcome 2025 and a new semester begins in Morgantown, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. I like to start my year by mapping out my personal and professional goals and aspirations. Whether it’s focusing on career advancement, improving health and wellness, or deepening connections with others, the turn of the calendar provides a natural opportunity to reset and refocus.
For me, this process begins with carving out time to reflect on what I’ve accomplished and where I want to go next. It’s a moment to evaluate what’s working, what could improve, and what truly matters. Whether it’s setting a plan to take on a new challenge at work, prioritizing self-care, or giving back to the community, I use this time to create a roadmap for the year ahead—one filled with purpose and potential.
Whether you’re focused on advancing your career, strengthening relationships, giving back, or pursuing personal growth, a new year can signal a fresh start, a renewed sense of determination, or even an invitation to dream big and make meaningful progress. Together, let’s embrace the possibilities that 2025 holds and take the first steps toward achieving our goals.
Strengthening your connection to WVU can play a key role in helping you to achieve your goals. WVU offers countless ways to connect, grow, and give back, helping you stay inspired and grounded in the Mountaineer spirit. Here are a few ways to make WVU part of your 2025 goals:
Stay Connected Through Local Alumni Chapters
Wherever life takes you, your Mountaineer family is never far. Alumni chapters bring Mountaineers together for events, networking, community service, game watches, and even pepperoni roll contests. These chapters keep our shared traditions alive and help you foster connections that last a lifetime. Find a chapter near you: alumni.wvu.edu/chapters
Become a Member of the WVU Alumni Association
Membership in the WVU Alumni Association unlocks exclusive benefits (including discounts to Alumni Association events) and resources while directly supporting programs that strengthen the Mountaineer community. Plus, recent grads enjoy a free year of membership! Learn more about the perks of membership here: alumni.wvu.edu/why-join/benefits
Network and Mentor Fellow Mountaineers
The WVU network is global, and opportunities to connect are endless. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn or mentoring programs to share advice, collaborate, or guide a student as they navigate their own WVU journey. Programs like Project 168 let you make a meaningful impact as a coach while building valuable connections.
Give Back to Make an Impact
Whether it’s through the annual WVU Day of Giving (which will take place March 26), scholarships, or endowments, your generosity directly supports future Mountaineers. By giving back, you ensure WVU continues to thrive in academics, research, service and beyond. Every contribution, big or small, helps build a brighter future for generations to come.
Plan a Trip Back to Campus
Nothing reignites Mountaineer pride like a visit to Morgantown. Relive your favorite memories by attending an athletic event, reconnecting with a favorite professor, or celebrating traditions during Homecoming. From the energy of cheering on the Mountaineers to the joy of walking familiar campus paths, every trip back to WVU is a chance to reconnect with the spirit that shaped your journey.
If your goals include networking, connecting, and giving back, take advantage of events like the WVU Alumni Association’s annual Marmaduke Dent Benefit to strengthen your ties to the Mountaineer community. This cherished tradition brings alumni together to celebrate our shared legacy while supporting scholarships and initiatives that benefit future generations. It’s a unique opportunity to make an impact, expand your professional network, and celebrate what it means to be a Mountaineer—all in one memorable evening.
Including WVU in your 2025 goals isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward. Staying connected, mentoring others, giving back, or simply visiting campus can deepen your personal and professional growth while keeping our shared Mountaineer spirit alive. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and purpose—together as Mountaineers.