Contact: Jack Bailey (304) 766-4109 jbaile19@wvstateu.edu
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. – West Virginia State University’s (WVSU) Healthy Grandfamilies program is hosting its second annual Grand Conference on Aug. 21 from 1-5:30 p.m. and Aug. 22 from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Bridgeport Conference Center in Bridgeport, West Virginia.
This symposium provides professionals from throughout the state of West Virginia with opportunities to learn, collaborate and network with like-minded individuals dedicated to supporting grandparents raising grandchildren.
The first day of the conference will feature informative presentations and updates on key initiatives. WVSU President Ericke S. Cage will address the audience from 1-1:30 p.m., followed by opening remarks from Healthy Grandfamilies Director Melissa Lilly from 1:30-2 p.m. The afternoon will showcase presentations on Healthy Grandfamilies’ quarterly reporting and disbursements and the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) homeless funding, which WVSU Healthy Grandfamilies Extension Educators Amy Shawver and Sherri Epling will present. The day will end with updates from partners, including FindHelp WV, Legal Aid of West Virginia, WV Drug Intervention Institute, Think Kids and KVC Behavioral HealthCare.
Day two will start with a keynote address by Dr. Shannon Smith on creating solid foundations to live better lives for generations to come, followed by an interactive training session on communication and collaboration. After lunch, the day’s presentations will continue with a problem-solving workshop and wrap up with closing remarks. For more information, please reach out to Melissa Lilly at
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