West Liberty, W.Va., September 9, 2025— Graduate students in West Liberty University’s Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP) program recently completed a semester-long project focused on ergonomics and workplace safety, partnering for the first time with Oglebay Park Resort to benefit its employees.
Dr. David Hanna, WLU Professor of Exercise Physiology, collaborated with Karen Hess, Vice President of Human Resources at Oglebay Park Resort, to identify opportunities to improve health and safety in Oglebay’s workforce. Together, they identified Food & Beverage and Housekeeping as departments with the highest rates of workplace injuries.
Students then conducted national-level research on injury data, toured Oglebay facilities, and observed employees performing daily tasks to better understand the risks.
Their work culminated in a comprehensive presentation to Oglebay’s Food & Beverage and Housekeeping staff. The presentation included evidence-based strategies, exercise recommendations, and educational tools designed to reduce injuries on the job.
“This initiative is a win-win for everyone,” said Hanna. “The students benefit from community engagement, interaction, education, and public presentation on the topic of Ergonomics, while Oglebay and its employees receive valuable evidence-based data that can hopefully be utilized to create a reduction of injuries over time. It is truly a great experience for the students and the employees, and we hope to keep moving forward with this initiative.”
The Exercise Physiology program is continuing its initiative, currently working with Topper Station to develop an updated onboarding ergonomics video for the Human Resource department and Oglebay Staff.
“Through collaboration with West Liberty University faculty and students, we combine innovation and education to create impactful safety training and videos that protect our team, strengthen our workplace culture, and prepare students for tomorrow’s leaders,” said Hess.
The project builds on a successful model used in previous semesters, where MSEP students collaborated with campus departments such as Music, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and Human Resources. In each case, students conducted ergonomic assessments, analyzed movement patterns, and created educational resources—including fliers, posters, videos, and brochures—aimed at reducing injuries and increasing safety awareness.
The project reflects WLU’s commitment to experiential learning, interprofessional education, and community engagement. Plans are underway to continue ergonomics collaborations with Oglebay and expand opportunities for future MSEP cohorts to partner with both on-campus departments and regional organizations.
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.
