Amerion College Huntington: A Legacy of Opportunity and Innovation
Founded in 1936 by Chester A. Riley as Huntington School of Business, Amerion College Huntington has a rich history of academic excellence. Riley served as president for more than 60 years, guiding the college through decades of growth. Initially offering courses in shorthand, typing, and bookkeeping, the college has since expanded to provide six Associate of Applied Science degree programs with concentrations in Business, Administrative Technology, Allied Health, and Addiction Recovery. In keeping with its commitment to intellectual rigor, the college is also launching an innovative two-year program in Classical Liberal Arts.
Amerion College Huntington is headquartered in downtown Huntington, W.Va., in the historic former Cabell County Public Library. Built in 1902 with support from Andrew Carnegie, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, symbolizing the college’s deep-rooted connection to education and community enrichment.
In March 2022, the college transitioned to the leadership of a nationally recognized non-profit board, and the U.S. Department of Education officially granted it non-profit status in 2023. Today, under the leadership of President Dr. Fred Fransen, the college continues to evolve while staying true to its founding values.
In 2025, the institution was renamed Amerion College Huntington—a reflection of both its enduring dedication to students in the Huntington Tri-State area and its expanded mission to serve learners nationwide. The new name embodies the college’s commitment to the American ideals of opportunity, discovery, and personal and civic success, empowering students to transform their lives and their communities.