A sold-out crowd of West Virginia University alumni and friends will welcome President James P. Clements and other featured speakers to the Kanawha Valley as part of the WVU Alumni Association’s 14th Annual Capital Classic luncheon. The event, hosted by the Association, will be held at noon Wednesday, Jan. 20, at the Charleston Embassy Suites.

More than 35 affiliates, divisions, units, schools and colleges of WVU are participating in the luncheon which takes place on the afternoon of the WVU-Marshall men’s and women’s basketball games.

President Clements plans to discuss how the University opens the world to West Virginia through innovative academic programs and research, community service and outreach, dedicated faculty and staff and an international network of engaged graduates. Nearly 500 alumni, government leaders, parents and friends of WVU are expected to be on hand for the event.

Gov. Joe Manchin III is expected to attend and offer greetings. Brief visits also will be made by the men’s and women’s basketball coaches and players.

“The Capital Classic event is a great opportunity to showcase the impact of West Virginia University on not only on the state, but also how our reach extends around the world,” said Steve Douglas, president and CEO, WVU Alumni Association.

“Our alumni, parents and friends in the Kanawha Valley area are integral to the success of WVU, and this is a wonderful venue to bring everyone together to celebrate the accomplishments of this great University.”

The popular WVU Fanfare will begin earlier this year so that fans can attend both the women’s and men’s games, Douglas said. The reception will take place from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Civic Center North Hall, and will include themed displays, interactive games, unique giveaways, video highlights, a performance by the WVU Pep Band, appearances by the Mountaineer and WVU cheerleaders, complimentary snacks and a Mountaineer Market where fans can purchase their favorite WVU merchandise.

The event, which annually attracts thousands, is free and open to all WVU fans. It is sponsored by the WVU Alumni Association, WVU Office of University Events, the Daily Athenaeum and Liberty Mutual.

The Chesapeake Energy Capital Classic women’s game tips off at 6:30 p.m. (broadcast on PBS) at the Charleston Civic Center. The men’s game follows at 9 p.m. and will be broadcast on the Capital Classic Network. Both games are sold out.

-WVU

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CONTACT: Tara Curtis, WVU Alumni Association
304-293-4731