At our regular Tuesday morning meeting at the Bavarian Inn, members of the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown welcomed Dr. Jack DeRochi, Shepherd University Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, for an energizing update on the university’s direction and momentum.
Dr. DeRochi spoke with clear enthusiasm about the bright future ahead for Shepherd. He described higher education as being at an “inflection point,” shaped by demographic shifts, technological disruption, and increased scrutiny around the value of a college degree. In the midst of these challenges, he emphasized that Shepherd is uniquely positioned for growth, thanks in large part to its deep relationship with the local community, the economic vitality of the Eastern Panhandle, and its strong regional identity.
A major highlight of his presentation was the State of West Virginia’s recent $30 million investment in new facilities including a new dining hall and multipurpose building located on the west side of the Shepherd campus near the intramural fields. This project will include state-of-the-art dining facilities, along with new locker rooms and a weight room. Continued development at Tabler Farm, including a new agribusiness center, reflects the university’s growing alignment with regional workforce needs in agriculture, business, technology, and allied health.
Dr. DeRochi also underscored Shepherd’s commitment to preparing students for the evolving workplace — especially the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. The creation of a new AI Lab under the College of Business, stackable professional credentials, increased internship opportunities, and expansion of online programs (including a fully online MBA launching in 2026) are among the initiatives driving an innovative and forward-facing academic portfolio.
Throughout his remarks, the Provost celebrated Shepherd’s strong community partnerships, including with Rotary and Rotaract, which enrich the student experience and deepen the university’s local impact. He expressed confidence that Shepherd’s best days are ahead — a message that inspired and encouraged our club members.
The accompanying photo shows from left: Dale Homan, Rotary President; Jen Wabnitz, Rotary Vice President; Dr. Jack DeRochi, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Shepherd University; and Austin Slater, Vice-Chair of Shepherd University’s Board of Governors.