Message from the Dean of Students

On behalf of the faculty, administration and staff of Mountain State University family, I would like to extend a warm welcome to you along with congratulations on the academic achievements that have brought you here. We are certain that more success lies ahead.

The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs is always open to any student needing assistance in matters of general welfare, or information about Mountain State University. Should students need help in any way concerning personal, academic, or social challenges, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs stands ready to provide assistance.

Services:

• Providing Accommodations for students with Physical and Learning Disabilities
• Serving as student ombudsman on a variety of different issues
• Supervising New Student Orientation
• Primary Advisor for Student Government
• Developing & Implementing Leadership Opportunities for students
• Chief Judicial Officer
• Address disciplinary matters with students
• Editing of the Student Handbook

In your college experience, as in many areas of your life, you will find that it is important to strike a balance between the things you must do to reach your goals and the things that bring you personal enjoyment. Your academic achievements and extracurricular activities will help to shape your educational career, and the interests you develop are likely to stay with you for many years. We have a very diverse student body from all over the world and boast a wide variety of student organizations and student activities to supplement your educational experiences at MSU.

Good luck as you begin your educational journey.
"Accept the COUGAR CHALLENGE."

Reginald Garcon M. Ed.
Mountain State University
Dean of Students and Campus Life
PO Box 9003
Beckley, West Virginia 25801
(304)929-1434
(800)766-6067, ext. 1434
Fax: 304-929-1600
rgarcon@mountainstate.edu

The Office of Student Affairs Mission

The fundamental purpose of the Office of Student Affairs is to support and enhance the University's educational mission by developing a well-rounded student. We do this by creating a safe, healthy living and learning environment that: promotes learning; provides support for students in need; supports a residential community in which students are involved and have a sense of belonging; encourages students to become leaders; fosters respect for all persons and offers a wide range of exciting activities and programs that incorporates the six dimensions of wellness.

Six Dimensions of Wellness

1. Physical wellness promotes participation in activities for encouraging sound nutrition, healthy life-style habits, cardiovascular endurance, muscular strengthening and flexibility, relative to each person’s abilities and disabilities.

Examples include educational workshops, safety programs, intramurals, sport programs, health fairs, and students using their free YMCA membership. 

2. Social wellness emphasizes the creation, involvement, and support of positive, interdependent relationships.

Some activities include getting involved in student activities, campus student organizations and various outreach and community service activities.

3. Occupational wellness is the ability to gain personal satisfaction and enrichment through one’s work, school, hobbies or community service activities.

Students may use counseling services, tutoring, work on campus, or attend various workshops such as resume and interviewing skills.
 
4. Intellectual wellness promotes the use of one’s mind and involves critical thinking, creativity, problem solving and humor.

Intellectual activities include cultural events, quizzes, accessing services and resources, attending educational workshops and health fairs.

5. Emotional wellness is the ability to feel, express and manage one’s emotions.

Students have access to counseling, disability services, and various educational workshops.  

6. Spiritual wellness is the ability to find meaning and purpose in life.  

Some activities include meditation, counseling, prayer, music, dance, art, reading, cultural functions, religious events, and students may participate in activities hosted by organizations affiliated with on-campus ministries.