West Virginia University officials said the institution has recorded its highest four-year graduation rate thanks to student-focused programming. The opening of a Purpose Center to encourage self-discovery along with student success programs has led to a 14% increase in graduation rates over an eight-year span. More than 80% of Mountaineer freshman are returning to classes this year, marking the university’s second-highest freshman retention rate. The report comes after the university moved to eliminate more than two dozen majors and more than 100 faculty positions while dealing with declining enrollment and a $45 million deficit.