Since its inception more than 25 years ago, the West Virginia University Alumni Association’s Academy of Distinguished Alumni has honored nearly 100 graduates who have achieved many firsts in the areas of medicine, military, science, education, business, athletics and other professional fields. These alumni truly represent the very best of WVU.

To lift up and celebrate those professional success stories, an anonymous donor generously provided a gift to establish the Academy of Distinguished Alumni interactive display at The Erickson Alumni Center. With the touch of a finger visitors can learn about members of the Academy, including bios of each distinguished alumnus, media clips and other information about this elite group.

“This display will serve as a permanent reminder of the successes of this elite group of Mountaineers,” said WVU Alumni Association President and CEO, Stephen L. Douglas. “As thousands of visitors make their way through the alumni center each year, they will be able to learn about WVU’s most distinguished alums. The display also will serve as a reminder for our current students as to what they can achieve through hard work, determination and passion. We are extremely grateful to our donor for recognizing the importance of celebrating these graduates.”


Watch a video about this year’s Academy of Distinguished Alumni class

The display was officially unveiled during the 2015 Academy of Distinguished Alumni ceremony on Feb. 20, honoring this year’s inductees: Judith Hayes of Houston, Texas; Dr. Thomas Menighan of Washington, D.C.; Dr. Rustin Moore of Columbus, Ohio; and James Valenti of West Palm Beach, Florida. Located on the first floor of The Erickson Alumni Center, the display also features a wooden seal of the university, pictures from previous winners and other memorabilia.

The gift was made in conjunction with A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University. The $1 billion comprehensive campaign being conducted by the WVU Foundation on behalf of the University runs through Dec. 2017. For more information about WVU Alumni Association giving opportunities, contact Nicole Riggleman at 304-293-4731.

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CONTACT: Tara Curtis, WVU Alumni Association
304-293-0972, tecurtis@mail.wvu.edu

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