WVU president reports stable financial outlook for University, introduces incoming CFO during BOG meeting

West Virginia University continues to operate on solid financial ground with a "stable outlook," according to the three largest credit rating agencies.

President Michael T. Benson reported the reaffirmation of positive ratings of A from S&P Global for "strong capacity to meet financial commitments," AA- from Fitch Ratings, meaning "very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments," and Aa3 from Moody's for "high quality and very low credit risk" during Friday's (April 17) Board of Governors meeting.

"Our financial house is in order with no deficit," President Benson said. "This will pay huge dividends as we consider issuing bonds to address acute capital needs. These strong, credit-worthy ratings will guarantee lower interest rates, thus saving the University millions of dollars. Everyone at the University is to be commended for the steps we've all taken together to operate in a fiscally responsible way."

Building on that momentum, President Benson introduced Chris Kabourek, the University's incoming vice president and chief financial officer who will bring extensive experience from two large, public flagship research institutions - the University of Nebraska and The Ohio State University - to his new role. Kabourek's start date is June 1.

"It's an absolute pleasure to join the West Virginia University team," Kabourek said. "We have an incredible opportunity before us. We're ready to roll. Let's Go!"

Highlighting the importance of University staff, the meeting also included the annual WVU Staff Council report.

"While buildings and offices define our campus, it's the Classified Staff who bring West Virginia University to life. We are the hands that maintain this institution and the heart that supports our students, moving from behind the scenes to front and center through dedicated advocacy," said Dianne Stewart, BOG Classified Staff representative and program assistant in the WVU Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.

"As we look ahead, we remain the consistent voice for our professionals across Morgantown, Keyser, and Beckley, ensuring that those who keep this University running are both supported and celebrated."

Several representatives from the WVU Student Government Association highlighted successes from the past academic year while setting goals for the coming year.

"Maintaining direct connections between the Board and the University's students is vital," said Colin Street, the BOG student representative, SGA president, and a junior pursuing a triple major in political science, environmental and energy resources management and multidisciplinary studies.

"During the past year, we have worked to establish SGA as a go-to resource for students. In the coming year, we will continue to work to embed students in the culture of the community. We want SGA to exist in bold fashion beyond our time here."

Robert "Bob" Reynolds, BOG vice chair and Putnam Investments president and CEO, was recognized as the recipient of the inaugural WVU John Chambers College of Business and Economics Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented during a Thursday (April 16) ceremony at his namesake, Reynolds Hall.

To address an urgent need in the construction industry, the Board approved a new degree program in the Statler College to begin with the Fall 2026 semester - a Bachelor's of Science in Construction Management, offering access and opportunity to students seeking education in construction management.

View the April 17 Board of Governors regular meeting agenda and meeting materials.

The next regular Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for June 19.

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