BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Kelly Morton, a clinical assistant professor at the West Virginia University (WVU) School of Nursing, has been named the 2024 WVU School of Nursing Beckley Campus Alumni of the Year.
Morton, a 2004 graduate of WVU Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), was a standout student-athlete, serving as a member of the Golden Bear Softball Team and the Student Nurses Association (SNA).
Her career began at Montgomery General Hospital, where she established a strong commitment to patient care, which later evolved into a passion for nursing education and mentorship.
In 2014, Morton transitioned into higher education, serving as Coordinator for the Medical Assistant Program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College.
This experience inspired her to pursue advanced degrees, earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Education and Leadership in 2016 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2024, both from Capella University.
At WVU’s School of Nursing, Morton has excelled as an academic counselor, course coordinator, and advisor for the Student Nurses Association.
She has also championed initiatives like the Southern West Virginia Junior Nurse Academy and the Jump Start Summer Bridge Nursing Program, helping aspiring nurses succeed in their educational journeys.
Her dedication to nursing has been widely recognized.
In 2017, she was honored with the 40 Under 40 Nursing Leadership Award, and in 2022, she received the Spirit of Nursing Award from Dr. Tara Hulsey, Dean of the WVU School of Nursing.
Morton is also a member of prominent organizations, including the National League for Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and the American Nurses Association.
Morton’s commitment to the nursing profession extends beyond the classroom. She is a published author and a community leader, advocating for the role of education in shaping skilled and compassionate nurses who can meet the challenges of modern healthcare.
Morton lives in Charleston with her husband, Jeff, also a WVU Tech alumnus, and their two daughters, Madison and Brooklyn.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, attending sporting events, and supporting her daughters in their activities.
In addition to Morton, WVU Tech named Tim O’Neal (‘97), Dr. Bridget A. O’Brien (‘03), and Danny F. Scalise II (‘02) as recipients of Alumni of the Year Awards for the Leonard C. Nelson School of Engineering, the School of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Business, respectively.
The award recipients will be celebrated at a reception and dinner on Jan. 24 at The Resort at Glade Springs.
