West Liberty, W.Va. - For more than two decades, Courtney Huffman has been a familiar and respected presence on the campus of West Liberty University. As a professor, mentor, and the university's Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR), Huffman has spent her career supporting students both in the classroom and across the university's athletic programs.

Since joining the West Liberty faculty in 2002, Huffman has played a vital role in the success of the university's Dental Hygiene program, while also serving as a key bridge between academics and athletics. Her dedication to teaching and mentorship has earned her some of the university's highest honors, including West Liberty Professor of the Year three times (2009, 2010 and 2017) and the Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award in 2010. She was also inducted into the Liber Society, the university's women's honorary recognizing excellence and leadership in the classroom, on campus, and in the community.

Yet for Huffman, the recognition has always been humbling.

"Honestly, I was shocked each time," Huffman said of the Professor of the Year honors. "We have rock star faculty on this campus, and I couldn't believe our students thought that highly of my teaching abilities not once, not twice, but three times. I've been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my career, including Margie Six and Dr. John McCullough. I value my role not only as a professor but also as a mentor and leader to young men and women."

West Liberty Roots

Huffman's connection to West Liberty began through athletics and quickly became a lifelong commitment.

Shortly after she became engaged to her husband, Dr. Aaron Huffman, he met legendary West Liberty women's basketball coach Lynn Ullom. Soon after the couple married, Aaron accepted a position at then West Liberty State College, serving as NCAA Compliance Coordinator under longtime athletic director Jim Watson while also assisting with the women's basketball program.

At the same time, an opening emerged in the university's Dental Hygiene department.

"A quarter of a century later, we are still here," Huffman said.

The Huffman family quickly became deeply woven into the fabric of the university. Aaron has served the institution in several roles, including athletic director, assistant basketball coach, compliance coordinator, financial aid counselor, and professor, while Courtney has contributed as a resident director in campus housing, a dental hygiene faculty member, and Faculty Athletics Representative.

A Bridge Between Academics and Athletics

Huffman currently serves in her second stint as West Liberty's Faculty Athletics Representative, a position she previously held from 2006 to 2016.

The FAR role, required by the NCAA, serves as a critical link between the university's academic mission and its athletics programs.

"Some people may not realize that every NCAA school must have a Faculty Athletics Representative," Huffman explained. "My role is to act as a liaison connecting the athletic and academic sides of campus."

In that role, Huffman has worked alongside numerous university leaders and administrators, serving under five university presidents and four athletic directors, including current president Dr. Tim Borchers and athletic director Brad Forshey.

One of the most rewarding parts of the position, she says, is watching student-athletes excel both academically and athletically.

"Some of my absolute hardest working and highest achieving students have been student-athletes," Huffman said. "The schedules, demands, and pressures they balance are tremendous. I love watching our students live out the NCAA Division II mantra 'Life in the Balance.' It's incredible to see the work they put into the classroom translate onto the field, court, or mat."

A Family of Toppers

For the Huffman family, West Liberty athletics has always been more than just a career connection—it's part of their identity.

"West Liberty athletics is what originally brought the Huffmans here," she said.

Over the years, the family has experienced countless milestones together, including 16 men's and women's basketball conference championships during their time on campus.

The Huffmans' three children have also embraced the Hilltopper spirit. Jacob, a junior at West Liberty, is a member of the track and field team, while Jillian, a sophomore, competes in both basketball and track. Their youngest son, Josh, will graduate from Wheeling Park High School this spring and plans to join the Hilltoppers as a freshman student-athlete in the fall.

A Legacy of Education and Leadership

When Huffman reflects on her time at West Liberty, she takes the greatest pride in the impact she and her colleagues have had on students.

"I'm most proud of the consistent, elite-level education we provide to our dental hygiene students," she said.

She also values watching her husband be part of some of the winningest basketball programs in West Liberty history, working alongside legendary coaches such as Lynn Ullom, Jim Crutchfield, Ben Howlett, and Mike Lamberti.

After more than two decades of service, Huffman describes West Liberty in one simple word.

"Home," she said. "That word literally and figuratively embodies everything West Liberty has meant to me. I'm forever grateful for the blessings it has provided our family and for all the people who have impacted our lives along the way."

A Message to Student-Athletes

For current Hilltopper student-athletes, Huffman offers a reminder about the value of their time on campus.

"The days can be long, but the years are short," she said. "As a Topper, you have people across this campus and in our community who are your biggest and most loyal fans. I'm blessed to be part of your experience, and I wish you the very best after graduation."

Her message ends with the same spirit that has guided her career at West Liberty.

"Use your professional skills and personal experiences to thrive," Huffman said. "Go Toppers."

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.