125 Years of Service
FEATURED EVENTS (NON-FOUNDERS DAY)
February 9, 2016
HBCU T-Shirts by SGA
1:00 PM
James C. Wilson University Union
This event, sponsored by the Student Government Association, features a t-shirt give away celebrating HBCU pride.
February 11, 2016
Of Ebony Embers: Vignettes of the Harlem Renaissance
10:30 AM and 12:30 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, F.S. Belcher Theater
Of Ebony Embers is a chamber music theatre performance with actor and trio (cello, piano, and percussion) celebrating the lives of the great African-American poets Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Claude McKay. As a tribute to Black History Month and West Virginia State’s rich history, the musical score includes works by jazz giants Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, Billy Strayhorn, Thelonius Monk, and Charles Mingus. This event is produced by the Core Ensemble of Lake Worth, Florida and sponsored by West Virginia State University’s Cultural Activities Committee in cooperation with the Student Government Association and the Department of Music.
February 11, 2016
West Virginia State’s Love Story
A Lecture by Assistant Vice President for University Advancement Adam Neal and Director of Alumni Relations Belinda Fuller
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Dr. Ann Brothers Smith Conference Room
In recognition of West Virginia State’s 125th Celebration and as a tribute to Black History Month, learn about the humble beginnings of West Virginia State’s Institute campus, which was born from a remarkable and touching love story between Samuel I. Cabell and Mary Barnes. This in-depth look into the historical beginnings of West Virginia State will shine a new light on the vital role of the campus on our local community, our state, and the entire nation.
February 11, 2016
Yearbook Display and “What WVSU Means to Me” Contest by SGA
All Day
James C. Wilson University Union
This event, sponsored by the Student Government Association, will include a display of yearbook photos from the past! Also, it is the final opportunity to enter the “What WVSU Means to Me” contest where the winner will receive a prize.
February 16, 2016
Department History Showcase by SGA
12:30 PM
James C. Wilson University Union
This event, sponsored by the Student Government Association, will showcase West Virginia State’s history and provide fast facts and general information.
February 18, 2016
WVSU Land-Grant: Then and Now
A Lecture by Vice President for Research and Public Service Dr. Orlando F. McMeans
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Dr. Ann Brothers Smith Conference Room
West Virginia State University was founded on March 17, 1891, as an 1890 Land-Grant University with a tripartite mission of teaching, research, and outreach. Showcased through stories and photos, learn about the early years of land-grant program development to today's continued tradition of needs-based, responsive extension programming, cutting-edge research programs, and quality academic experiences for students.
February 23, 2016
West Virginia State University Day at the Capitol
8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
State Capitol Complex, Main Building (OFF-CAMPUS LOCATION)
Join hundreds of Yellow Jackets during West Virginia State University Day at the Capitol as the State family engages with West Virginia lawmakers and the public. More than 40 displays will be set up throughout the Upper Rotunda of the State Capitol presenting the variety of educational offerings, as well as information on student services, Yellow Jacket athletics, admissions, and alumni events.
February 25, 2016
125 Years of History at West Virginia State
A Lecture by History Professor Dr. Billy Joe Peyton
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Dr. Ann Brothers Smith Conference Room
Join West Virginia State University History Professor Dr. Billy Joe Peyton as he discusses the rich 125-year history and development of West Virginia State from its origins as a 19th Century slave plantation to become the largest center of higher education in the Kanawha Valley. The important story, which encapsulates the pioneering spirt of Black History Month, will be shared through the use of historic images of the campus through the years.
February 25, 2016
Hybrid Soul Celebrates with SGA
6:00 PM
James C. Wilson University Union
Come out for a night of music, food, and celebration! This event, sponsored by the Student Government Association in partnership with the Cultural Activities Committee, will celebrate Black History Month at West Virginia State University and State family pride.
February 26, 2016
Earl Lloyd Day
A Tribute by Head Men’s Basketball Coach Bryan Poore
12:00 PM
D. Stephen and Diane H. Walker Convocation Center, Earl Francis Lloyd Lobby
Join the State family in tribute to West Virginia State alum Earl Francis Lloyd, “The Big Cat,” the first African-American to play in a NBA game. As we mark the first annual Earl Lloyd Day at West Virginia State University, we reflect on his role as a trailblazer in the Civil Rights Movement and his monumental impact on our campus and throughout the nation.
March 31, 2016
Booker T. Washington’s Boyhood Home and Legacy at West Virginia State
A Lecture by The Honorable Larry L. Rowe
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Dr. Ann Brothers Smith Conference Room
Learn from The Honorable Larry L. Rowe about the important role of Booker T. Washington in West Virginia State’s rich history. Mr. Rowe is a current member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, former member of the West Virginia State Senate, and former member and former Chair of the West Virginia State University Board of Governors. He is the resident expert on Booker T. Washington and his boyhood home located in Malden, West Virginia on property maintained by the University.
April 22, 2016
Celebrating 100 Years of ROTC
The Yellow Jacket Battalion’s Annual Dining Out Event
6:00 PM
James C. Wilson University Union, Multipurpose Room
In recognition of West Virginia State’s time-honored tradition of military service, the campus community will celebrate 100 Years of Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) with The Yellow Jacket Battalion’s annual Dining Out event. During the event, which will be led by the University’s Department of Military Science, a keynote speaker will highlight the enduring spirit of the ROTC and the University’s steadfast service to the nation.
April 23, 2016
Cares Day
8:30 AM
D. Stephen and Diane H. Walker Convocation Center
The fourth annual Cares Day is a day-long event bringing together students, faculty, staff, and alumni to perform volunteer work on a variety of projects throughout Kanawha and Putnam counties. Participants will meet in the D. Stephen and Diane H. Walker Convocation Center beginning at 8:30 AM to join members of their respective teams and participate in a 9:00 AM kick-off ceremony before departing campus for their respective volunteer assignments at various work sites.
September 29, 2016-October 1, 2016
Homecoming 2016
Campus-Wide
Homecoming on the campus of West Virginia State University has always been a time to reflect upon the traditions and historic past, while looking toward a bright and exciting future. We hope you will join the State family in celebrating 125 years of Yellow Jacket pride with a variety of events for alumni and friends of all ages!
125 Years of Service
EVENTS (FOUNDERS DAY)
March 16, 2016
125 Years of Service Archive Display
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Drain-Jordan Library
Visit the Drain-Jordan Library to view the 125 Years of Service Archive Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives in service to others.
March 16, 2016
Open House
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall
Take an opportunity to learn more about West Virginia State University’s most historic buildings, Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall, by taking a personal tour. University officials will be available to provide the tours, as well as information about the history and current use of each of these campus facilities.
March 16, 2016
125 Years of Service Art Display
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery
Visit the Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery in the Davis Fine Arts Building to view the 125 Years of Service Art Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives in service to others.
March 16, 2016
Scavenger Hunt
3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Portal
The Political Science Society and Pre-Law Association will provide an interactive opportunity to join with fellow members of the State family and to relive the past 125 years of memories on the beautiful Institute campus.
March 17, 2016
SIGNATURE EVENT: Founders Day Campus-Wide Program and Luncheon Celebration
12:30 PM to 1:45 PM
D. Stephen and Diane H. Walker Convocation Center
In celebration of 125 years of West Virginia State, a campus-wide gathering will be held for students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends, and the community. As part of the gathering, a formal program will highlight the history of our Great University and its impact. The celebration will include a birthday cake and a luncheon. This is the signature event of the 125th Celebration and will be one to remember for many years to come!
March 17, 2016
FEATURED EVENT: Book Signing and Reception
“A Place We Love So Dear, A Collection of Campus Drawings” by Dr. R. Charles Byers
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, Lobby and Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery
In celebration of 125 years of West Virginia State, the first copies of “A Place We Love So Dear, A Collection of Campus Drawings” by Dr. R. Charles Byers, former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs with more than four decades of service to West Virginia State, will be available to those who pre-ordered copies. A limited number of additional copies will be available for purchase, and the author will be on hand to personally sign the books to commemorate this historic celebration.
March 17, 2016
FEATURED EVENT: Orchestra Concert
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, F.S. Belcher Theater
The Charleston Chamber Orchestra at West Virginia State University will perform a concert in honor of the 125th Anniversary of West Virginia State University. The Orchestra is made up of students, faculty, and community members. The celebration concert will feature the works of Ludwig van Beethoven and Julius Fucik. The concert will culminate with a performance of William Grant Still’s “Afro-American Symphony.” Maestro Still was the first African-American to conduct a major American orchestra and the first African-American composer whose works were performed by leading orchestras. Admission is free, but a ticket is required to reserve a seat and gain admittance.
March 17, 2016
Day of Giving
All Day
Campus-Wide
The Day of Giving is a day dedicated to giving back to West Virginia State University. Aligned with our 125th Founders Day on March 17, 2016, alumni and friends from around the country will come together in support of State. Funds from the Day of Giving will support WVSU students and programs throughout the year. #WVSUDayofGiving
March 17, 2016
125 Years of Service Archive Display
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Drain-Jordan Library
Visit the Drain-Jordan Library to view the 125 Years of Service Archive Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives to service to others.
March 17, 2016
Open House
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall
Take an opportunity to learn more about West Virginia State University’s most historic buildings, Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall, by taking a personal tour. University officials will be available to provide the tours, as well as information about the history and current use of each of these campus facilities.
March 17, 2016
125 Years of Service Art Display
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery
Visit the Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery in the Davis Fine Arts Building to view the 125 Years of Service Art Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives in service to others.
March 18, 2016
125 Years of Service Archive Display
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Drain-Jordan Library
Visit the Drain-Jordan Library to view the 125 Years of Service Archive Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives to service to others.
March 18, 2016
Open House
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall
Take an opportunity to learn more about West Virginia State University’s most historic buildings, Canty House, Curtis House, and East Hall, by taking a personal tour. University officials will be available to provide the tours, as well as information about the history and current use of each of these campus facilities.
March 18, 2016
125 Years of Service Art Display
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Davis Fine Arts Building, Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery
Visit the Della Brown Taylor Hardman Gallery in the Davis Fine Arts Building to view the 125 Years of Service Art Display. Items on display illustrate West Virginia State University’s rich history and pay tribute to the many Yellow Jackets who have devoted their lives in service to others.