The WVU Impact Awards recognize employees who exemplify Mountaineer Values and make meaningful contributions to the University’s mission. These awards celebrate individuals whose work strengthens the campus community, supports student success and creates a lasting impact across disciplines.
This year’s recipients from the Eberly College of Arts & Sciences reflect that mission through mentorship, academic leadership, creative achievement and an unwavering commitment to students. Honorees include: Mark Brazaitis, Zach Fowler, Brandon Ritter, Viola Bryant, Nicholas Haas, Josh Osbourn, and Stephanie Young.
For Brandon Ritter, impact is measured in milestones. In his role in undergraduate recruiting, he has the rare opportunity to guide students from their first introduction to WVU all the way to graduation.
“Seeing the students walk across the stage has always been a top-tier accomplishment for me,” he said.
As a first-generation student who once felt “terrified and lost” at WVU, Ritter now speaks with students from around the world about his excitement and love for the Eberly College. Receiving this award affirms his commitment to the Mountaineer Values and to going to “the very ends to best serve every student & family.” Still, he remains humble, emphasizing that creating a welcoming environment “takes each and every one of us.”
That same student-centered focus defines Viola Bryant’s work. Her proudest moments come when students reach their goals and take the time to express their gratitude. Just recently, a student wrote to her, “This defense going successfully couldn’t have happened without you.”
As she prepares for retirement, she reflects, “I will miss our students with all my heart.” For Bryant, the award is both affirming and humbling. “I’m proud of the work I do, and it’s always good to hear that others are proud of me,” she said. In a college the size of Eberly, being chosen made her feel special—a fitting recognition for someone whose steady support has helped countless students cross the finish line.
In STEM education, impact often takes the shape of collaboration and innovation. Nicholas Haas is proud of helping expand assistance in the STEM Learning Center from six initial courses to 24, significantly broadening academic support for students. He also became a Certified Tutor Trainer through the National Tutoring Association, strengthening staff development and the quality of tutoring services. For Haas, the award signifies that his work is positively affecting WVU’s mission.
“The success of the students is my priority,” he said, adding that the recognition belongs just as much to his student staff and to mentors like Dr. Stephanie Young and Dr. Josh Osbourn. “This success is truly a team effort.”
That collaborative spirit is echoed by Josh Osbourn, who is most proud of the rapid growth of the Foundational STEM Collaborative. What began as an idea quickly developed into a vital support service for faculty and students in foundational STEM courses. “This award shows that the work we’ve been doing… is valued by University leadership,” he shared. The recognition reinforces his commitment to students and to the shared effort required to strengthen STEM education at WVU.
Beyond the classroom and learning centers, impact extends into creative and community spaces. Mark Brazaitis highlights the accomplishments of his graduate student, Kelly Ward, who won a 2025 AWP Intro Award from the Association of Writers and Writing Programs, as one of his proudest moments. He also points to his ongoing work in the Morgantown community with the Morgantown Green Team and the Mon Valley Green Space Coalition, helping move closer to realizing a Morgantown Greenbelt that would enhance recreation and non-motorized transportation. In addition, he has published numerous creative works and directed a local community theater production. For Mark, the award reflects not only individual achievement, but the strength of the Creative Writing Program and Department of English.
“I consider it as much a program and department award as an individual award,” he said, describing the ceremony at the Coliseum as a meaningful celebration of shared values and purpose.
