An exclusive due diligence agreement to explore the purchase of the Mountain State University campus in Beckley has been reached between West Virginia University and Mountain State University.

“We have entered into an exclusive agreement to explore the possibility of purchasing the Mountain State University campus,” said WVU President Gordon Gee. “This truly is a unique opportunity – and one we feel an obligation to explore – especially as it has the potential to increase West Virginia University’s ability to serve our state.”

MSU Board representative Elmer Coppoolse stated, “This agreement is in total concert with MSU’s longstanding desire to retain a vital higher educational learning opportunity in southern West Virginia and to reestablish a continued economic driver for the city of Beckley and surrounding region.”

Provost Joyce McConnell adds that the exploration will allow the University to assess the educational and economic impact such a purchase could have on the region.

“Essentially, this agreement allows West Virginia University to explore the facilities, location, academic programs, student services, experiential learning opportunities and other areas at MSU in order to determine if they meet our academic and fiscal expectations,” McConnell said. “We also will be reviewing the economic impact to the area and the opportunities for entrepreneurial engagement.”

McConnell noted that WVU and MSU are in a “due diligence, early discussion/exploratory phase” and more details will follow as the process continues.

-WVU-

11/05/14

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