WVU Day at Legislature set for Feb. 17

MORGANTOWN -- "Service to the State" will be the theme of West Virginia University Day at the Legislature on Friday, Feb. 17, at the state Capitol Complex.

The event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. is being organized by WVU Extension Service, WVU's primary outreach agency.

"We're looking forward to showing lawmakers the many dimensions of WVU's service and outreach mission," WVU President David C. Hardesty Jr. said. "Through Extension offices in all 55 counties to our new Center for Civic Engagement, WVU is committed to helping people improve their lives and communities."

The day will begin with a welcome by Hardesty at 9:30 a.m. in the Cultural Center Theater.

Many WVU colleges, schools and units will host information tables in the Capitol Rotunda displaying service projects that exemplify the University's impact on West Virginia.

WVU's Center for Civic Engagement will have two displays. The University's relief efforts for the recent mine tragedies will be shown at the Cultural Center. Visitors will be able to write a message on pre-printed cards to the miners' families. In the Rotunda, the display will focus on the Center's outreach efforts in the greater West Virginia community.

WVU's National Research Center for Coal and Energy will provide a hands-on experience to learn about coal mining.

Visitors can experience another era by participating in candle dipping at the WVU Jackson's Mill display.

Extension displays will include: 4-H, Community Education Outreach Service (CEOS), Master Gardeners, Energy Express, firefighter training and Extension's other farm, family, nutrition and community programs.

"This day will give us a chance to showcase the important role WVU Extension and other University outreach programs play in the service mission to the communities and citizens of the state," said Larry Cote, associate provost for Extension and public service. "We will focus on the many ways our flagship university serves West Virginia."

WVU representatives will observe the House of Delegates and the state Senate in session, as well as visit individual delegates and senators. Some 4-H members will serve as pages for their local legislators.

On Wednesday, Feb. 15, WVU will participate in Higher Education Day at the Legislature from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The University's display will provide information on WVU's graduate and extended learning programs.