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West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

Lewisburg, WV

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

1974
Founded
Public medical school
Type
778
Total Students
Special Focus Four-Year
Classification
President: James W. Nemitz

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

WVSOM: Where a historic military school's legacy meets cutting-edge osteopathic medicine.

The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) stands as a beacon of public medical education, renowned for its commitment to osteopathic principles and a deeply rooted history. Far from a typical institution, WVSOM began its journey in 1974 as the private Greenbrier College of Osteopathic Medicine, taking over the historic grounds once home to the prestigious Greenbrier Military School. This unique foundation set the stage for an institution that blends tradition with innovative medical training, now serving a student body of 778.

Just two years after its inception, the school's board generously donated the college to the state, transforming it into the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. This pivotal moment established WVSOM as a state-funded public institution, broadening its reach and solidifying its mission to serve the people of West Virginia and beyond. By 1978, the first class of 33 dedicated students proudly graduated, marking a significant milestone in the school's burgeoning history.

Academically, WVSOM is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and rigorous osteopathic medical education, preparing physicians who are not only skilled clinicians but also holistic practitioners. This commitment is underpinned by a continuous investment in its infrastructure; since 1992, the campus has undergone extensive renovations and construction, with over $38 million poured into creating state-of-the-art learning environments. What started as a single building in 1974 has expanded into 12 modern facilities spread across more than 50 acres, including new exam rooms and laboratory spaces.

Prospective students and their families will find a vibrant and growing campus experience at WVSOM. The school's remarkable financial stewardship is evident in its ability to complete such expansive projects while maintaining a debt-free status. This stability ensures resources are consistently directed towards enhancing the educational experience, supporting student success, and fostering an environment where future osteopathic physicians can thrive.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1974, transforming the historic Greenbrier Military School campus into a medical institution.
  • Became a state-funded public institution in 1976, dedicated to public service and osteopathic medicine.
  • Graduated its inaugural class of 33 students in 1978, establishing its legacy in medical education.
  • Invested over $38 million in continuous campus expansion and renovation since 1992.
  • Grown from 1 building to 12 modern facilities across more than 50 acres, providing cutting-edge learning spaces.
  • Maintained a debt-free financial status despite extensive construction and growth.
  • Currently serves 778 students, focusing on osteopathic medical education.

Timeline

1812
Greenbrier Military School (facility later used by WVSOM) founded
1972
Greenbrier Military School ceases operations
1974
Greenbrier College of Osteopathic Medicine founded as a private school with 36 students
1976
School donated to the state, becoming West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM)
1978
WVSOM graduates its first class of 33 students
1992
Extensive renovations and construction projects begin
2016
State Senator proposes privatizing the institution
🏛️
52 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

James W. Nemitz
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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