About Concord University

For more than 150 years, Concord University has served the southern region of West Virginia, southwest Virginia and beyond, educating teachers, business leaders, scientists, social workers, as well as future medical and legal professionals. With a 14:1 student to faculty ratio and over 70 programs of study, Concord provides you with a quality education no matter what you choose.

Featured Stories

staff
Allen Smith '05
Director of Admissions

A former Concord University graduate, Allen Smith works to bring new students to CU. Allen spends a lot of time on the road visiting high schools and attending college fairs. When he is on campus, Allen is organizing campus visitations and helping families navigate the enrollment process. From scholarships and financial aid, to finding the right program of study, Allen and all our admission counselors are here for prospective CU students. “Concord feels like home.”

A photo of Allen Smith on Concord University's campus

Allen Smith '05

Director of Admissions

A photo of Dr. Allison Bean standing on Concord University's campus

Dr. Allison Bean

Assistant Professor of Business

A photo of Hannah Justice in front of University Point

Hannah Justice

Princeton, WV

A photo of Jade Gravley on Concord University's campus

Jade Gravely '18

Beckley, WV

A photo of Joan Pendergast in front of the Concord University Bell Tower
Dr. Joan Pendergast
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.”

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MARIAH BEVERLY ’15: CU OFFERED NATURAL FIT TO GROW ROOTS & WINGS

DELNORA REED ACUFF ’96 TO SERVE AS GRAND GROUNDHOG WATCHER

CAREER OF CONNECTIONS: DAVID BURCH ’88 SAYS CONCORD PREPPED HIM FOR SUCCESS

Students walking around Concord University's campus

FALL 2025 DEAN’S LIST ANNOUNCED