During West Virginia University Potomac State College’s annual Recognition Day Awards Ceremony, Hartley VanGilder was named Outstanding Student of the Year for 2025, earning her the distinction of serving as the student speaker during this year’s Commencement Ceremony. VanGilder will also have her name inscribed on the Duke Anthony Whitmore Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Academic Achievement Wall.
VanGilder earned an associate degree in sustainable ag entrepreneurship (SAGE) in 2023. She earned two degrees this spring, a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in SAGE and an associate degree in agribusiness management.
As an active participant in college life, VanGilder served as vice-president of the Student Government Association as well as the Ag and Forestry Club. She was a team captain and goalie on the PSC Women’s Soccer team and served as a resident assistant in University Place. She enjoyed volunteering at the Faith in Action Food Pantry in Keyser, W.Va., attended a cleanup day at Keyser Elementary, and spent time reading to the local youth.
VanGilder admits that College is a big step toward becoming independent and believes that attending Potomac State College was the right choice for her. “I chose PSC for its hands-on programs and small class sizes but fell in love with the small-town atmosphere and the people the who were instrumental in helping me succeed as a student. I met numerous faculty and staff who have influenced me along the way, especially those who taught my classes and the RHCs in Residence Life. I am very thankful to all of them for playing a part in my time at PSC.”
Having grown up on a 700-cow dairy farm in Pennsylvania, as well as owing a small beef herd, VanGilder was excited to extend her experiences beyond the classroom, VanGilder interned at the WVU Reymann Memorial Research, Education and Outreach Center in the summer of 2023 and at Stoney Creek Ranch Georgia last summer (2024). She will be interning at the R.A. Brown Ranch in Texas, where she will assist with preparations for the annual bull sale.
“After my internship this summer, I will begin applying for jobs in the agricultural field,” VanGilder said.
