In a video message to alumni and friends, West Virginia University President Gordon Gee says this weekend (Nov.1) is the perfect opportunity to show the nation our passion and pride for our school.

The video was accompanied by the following letter:

Dear Alumni and Friends:

The eyes of college football fans across the country will be on West Virginia University and Morgantown this weekend. What a great opportunity for our University, our town, and for our state to shine.

For the second time ever, ESPN’s College GameDay will be visiting campus from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday — just ahead of our 3:30 p.m. game with Texas Christian University — being televised nationally on ABC and ESPN2.

It is an opportunity to improve the reputation of our University following the destructive behavior of a small number of students after our football team’s victory over then-No. 4 ranked Baylor two weeks ago.

In fact, many of you took to social media using the hashtag #RespectfulMountaineer to denounce these actions and tell us why you respect and admire this wonderful place we call home. The campaign was launched by two of our bright marketing students, Deonna Gandy and Chris Hickey.

So with the spotlight on West Virginia University again this weekend, let’s show the nation the proud, passionate people we really are. Watch this video to hear what a few of your fellow graduates had to say.

E. Gordon Gee
President, West Virginia University

-WVU-

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