WEST LIBERTY, WV – When you walk into the student union on any given day, you might be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or the rhythmic sounds of french fries and burgers on the grill. But behind the familiar routines of daily campus life
are the hands and hearts of people who make West Liberty University feel like home.
Union workers like Shelby, who serves students daily at the campus Starbucks, aren’t just employees—they’re part of the community fabric. With a cheerful attitude and a smile that never fades, Shelby says her favorite part of the job is seeing students daily. “I love interacting with y’all and making you guys the best drinks I can. I strive to make everything as best I can for y’all .”
For many of these workers, their job is more than just a paycheck—it’s a calling. “I like knowing I’m helping in my way,” Shelby said. “Even if it’s something small, it’s good seeing y’all come back every day, it makes me feel I’m doing something right.”
These employees often work early mornings and late nights, behind the scenes, making sure students have clean spaces to study, food to eat, and welcoming places to gather. They do the work most people don’t notice—until it isn’t done.
When asked what keeps them going on the hard days, one food service employee, Mr. Curt, smiled and said, “The students’ encouraging words, their energy, and their thank-yous. That’s what keeps me coming back every day.”
Many of the workers talked about the sense of pride they feel being part of students’ journeys—whether it’s handing them coffee during finals week or making sure the fresh food is handed out with care. “I try to make the best decisions I can to impact the students in the best way,” Mr. Curt said.
These men and women carry decades of experience, hard work, and kindness. Their labor may often go unnoticed, but their presence is deeply felt.
To the Union workers of West Liberty: thank you. Your commitment, patience, and care do not go unseen. You are the quiet strength of this campus and the heart of our everyday experience.
