West Liberty University’s 175th anniversary has been a month-long celebration on the hilltop campus. On Friday, March 30, students, faculty and staff will recognize the university’s founders with events throughout the day, culminating with a special program and guest speakers.
At 1 p.m. in WLU’s Interfaith Chapel, The Honorable Jeffrey V. Kessler, WV Senate President/Lieutenant Governor will deliver the keynote address of the Founders Day program.
Also participating will be the WLU Concert Choir directed by Al deJaager, performing “Pater Noster” by Jacob Handl and the university’s Alma Mater.
Dr. John McCullough, executive assistant to the president, will deliver opening remarks. Joelle Conners-Ennis, representative of the WLU Alumni Association also will speak. Earl Nicodemus, president of the West Liberty Historical Society, will deliver to President Robin C. Capehart an historic flag on behalf of the town of West Liberty, which is celebrating its 225th anniversary this year.
Kessler, a graduate of West Liberty University, has represented the Second District since 1997 and is president of the W.Va. Senate. He is an attorney in private practice as a partner with the Moundsville firm of Berry, Kessler, Crutchfield, Taylor & Gordon, and a former assistant prosecuting attorney for Marshall County.
Other activities on Friday include an historical display in the Student Union ballroom, which may be visited from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Preceding the Founders Day program, at 9 a.m. in the Boyle Conference Room, the anniversary speakers’ series continues with a presentation by Provost Dr. Anthony Koyzis on the history of the university, from its founding in 1837 to the present day.
From noon-2 p.m. in the Union, guests may enjoy a piece of 175th anniversary cake, while other anniversary activities continue on the Quad from 2-6 p.m.