WVU Potomac State College recently joined the celebration with all WVU campuses for the 2026 Student Employee of the Year recognition ceremony. The awards celebrate the invaluable contributions of student employees across WVU campuses as part of Student Employee Appreciation Week.
Student employees play a crucial role in the functioning and success of WVU, demonstrating exceptional dedication, skill, and a commitment to excellence. Faculty, staff, and supervisors nominated outstanding student employees who made a significant impact on their departments and the broader WVU community.
Laney Rodeheaver, who works in the Biology department, was selected as the Potomac State College Student Employee of the Year for her exceptional leadership. Rodeheaver is working on her associate degree in General Studies. She was nominated by instructor Farren Smith. Rodeheaver had been awarded the College's Catamount Climb Higher award in February for her resiliency, outstanding work ethic, and kindness and positivity.
WVU Potomac State College president Jerry Wallace with Laney Rodeheaver and Farren Smith
As an active participant in college life, Rodeheaver has served as Biology 102 Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader for three semesters at Potomac State College after earning an A in the course. In this role, she attended all class sessions to stay aligned with course material, facilitated classroom engagement, and maintained regular office hours to provide tutoring and academic support.
Rodeheaver was deeply encouraged by the experience and stated that the impact of the mentorship by Farren Smith was tremendous.
“Serving as a Biology 102 Student Instructor at Potomac State College has been one of the most impactful experiences of my academic journey,” Rodehaver said. “When I first accepted the role, I was both excited and nervous, but over time it became a space where I developed confidence, leadership, and a deeper understanding of what it means to support others in their learning.”
The Catamount community proudly celebrates Laney Rodeheaver’s well-earned recognition by the West Virginia University system.
“Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to supporting her peers reflect the very best of Potomac State College,” Smith said. “This honor is a testament not only to her hard work and resilience, but also to the positive and lasting impact she has made on our campus. We are incredibly proud to call her a Catamount and look forward to all she will continue to accomplish."