KEYSER, W.Va. — WVU Potomac State College is proud to announce that Erin Cunningham has been named the 2025 Outstanding Professor of the Year, in recognition of her exceptional dedication to teaching, service, and student success.
Professor Cunningham, a longtime faculty member in the STEM division, is widely known for her ability to break down challenging scientific concepts into approachable lessons that resonate with students. Understanding that STEM subjects often involve difficult material and unfamiliar terminology, she has embraced a student-centered approach rooted in empathy, accessibility, and encouragement.
“Our students have different learning styles and capabilities and are often underprepared,” Cunningham said. “I focus on letting them know they are not alone by embracing a ‘we are all in this together’ mindset. I make it a priority to learn their names, chat with them before class, and answer every email within 24 hours.”
Her teaching philosophy and dedication to individualized support have left a lasting
impact on her students. Asher Westrom, one of her students, praised her availability
and perseverance:
"
One thing that distinguishes Professor Cunningham from other professors is her
ability to always be available to help students when they are struggling, and
her diligence to give her best every day she teaches. I am very grateful and
thankful for the opportunity to be a part of her classes, and I think she is
very deserving of this award. The lessons I have learned from her will continue
to go with me in my academic journey."
Exercise Science major Kylie Knowles echoed this sentiment:
"
I appreciate her professionalism as well as her kind disposition. It is a great
privilege and opportunity to learn in her classroom. She is approachable, sincere,
and knowledgeable, making her classroom one of the most engaging places on this
campus to learn."
In addition to her excellence in the classroom, Cunningham has demonstrated outstanding service to the college. She has served as Division Chair for the past three years and played a key role in expanding academic opportunities for students. One of her most impactful initiatives this year involved collaborating with the WVU School of Medicine to establish a direct pathway from Potomac State College to seven health professional programs. This partnership created new opportunities for students in fields such as respiratory therapy, communication sciences and disorders, and dental hygiene.
Cunningham is also active in the broader community, coordinating academic activities for the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA) camp and the Nursing Academy, both held on the PSC campus each summer.
Reflecting on her teaching journey, Cunningham shared:
"
After teaching for 18 years, sometimes the creativity for new ideas starts to lessen.
I find interacting at conferences and reading new books on student learning and
engagement an excellent opportunity to refresh my classroom. It is especially
important with new generations of students who communicate with the world and
learn very differently than when I was a student!"
Another student remarked:
"
She is the reason I decided to continue my education at PSC. Her genuine, caring,
and compassionate approach to being a professor is something I will forever commend
her for. She is down to earth and an all-around wonderful person and professor.
She believed in me first, which is why I believe in myself."
WVU Potomac State College is honored to recognize Erin Cunningham for her tireless commitment, compassionate leadership, and transformative impact on students' lives. She embodies the excellence, care, and innovation that define the college’s mission.