Concord Student Life
In addition to its stellar academic programs, Concord University offers plenty of opportunities for students to grow while having fun! There are several student organizations & Greek organizations you can join, exciting activities you can participate in, and workshops aimed to help your academic & professional development.
Featured Stories
Chair, Department of Social Work and Title IX Coordinator
When Dr. Pendergast was finishing her Ph.D. in Social Work Education at the University of South Carolina, she dreamed of teaching at a school like Concord. “I have wanted to live in the mountains for as long as I can remember,” she says. In 2007, she accepted a tenure-track position at CU and has found a home here. “The campus community is welcoming and accepting,” she says. Before completing her doctoral degree, Dr. Pendergast was a practicing social worker, valuable experience she shares with her students. “When I speak with students about social work, I explain that this is the best job and worst job you can have,” she says. “It’s very rewarding to see how people can change their lives, and it can be discouraging when these changes do not come.” Dr. Pendergast is dedicated to preparing her students for the realities they’ll face after graduation, and says she enjoys “being a small part of their journey.”
Dr. Joan Pendergast
Chair, Department of Social Work and Title IX Coordinator
Michael Yost
Class of 2017
Dr. Michael Bean
Assistant Professor of Education
Taylor Brown
Psychology Major with Business Administration minor
Nursing Major
Rachel is from Beckley, WV, and graduated from Liberty High School in 2016. She attended Concord from 2016-2020, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Sociology and Health Promotion. After graduating, she worked for several years as a teacher and cheerleading coach, but always wanted to pursue a degree in nursing. When Concord announced the BA/BS to BSN program, Rachel applied and came back to campus in August 2023. It’s a decision she does not regret. “The nursing program has been such a wonderful experience. The professors are extremely helpful and my fellow nursing students and I have become very close. The friendships we have created will continue to grow throughout our time at Concord, and they will be lifelong friends.” She continues her work as a cheerleading coach in Raleigh County, which is one of her favorite things to do. She also loves to read and spend time outdoors.
