Jolene Deane selected for Community Service Award at WVU School of Nursing

As part of the 2026 Student Employee of the Year announcements, Jolene Deane (center) has been selected for the Community Service Award.

Deane, an exercise physiology major who aspires to become a physician, began working with the WVU School of Nursing as a federal work-study student in August 2024. 

"From the outset, she distinguished herself through her professionalism, initiative, and genuine passion for serving others," Dr. Brad Phillips said. "In every responsibility she has undertaken, Ms. Deane has demonstrated a strong sense of accountability and willingness to exceed expectations in support of the School of Nursing and the broader university community."

During her time with the School of Nursing, Deane has taken the intiative to coordinate donation efforts for a family supported through the WVU Medicine Holiday Assistance Program, as well as a stuffed animal drive benefiting WVU Medicine Children's Hospital and the Monongalia County Police Department. 

Additionally, Deane contributed to food security initiatives within the community. Through a partnership with Suncrest United Methodist Church, she supported food assistance efforts for individuals and families experiencing food insecuirty. 

Deane volunteers regularly in the WV STEPS Center, where she supports hands-on learning opporutnities for nursing students by helping simulations run efficiently and ensuring that students and faculty have the supplies and resources needed for successful skills practice. She also assists with sophomore orientation by preparing materials and organizing the distribution of support resources, and she creates multimedia presentations for nursing pledge ceremonies.  

Also, Abigale Mullings, a student worker in the School of Nursing on the Morgantown Campus, was a finalist for Graduate Student Employee of the Year. Mullings was also recognized for her outstanding work in building community partnerships and advancing public health initiatives.