Associated Press Published

West Virginia State University Marks 125 Years of Service

West Virginia State University

West Virginia State University is celebrating its 125th anniversary.

The Charleston Gazette-Mail reports university officials, students and alumni honored the historically black college’s founding during a ceremony Thursday.

WVSU President Brian Hemphill said during a speech that the college’s century of serving the Kanawha Valley has changed lives.

Over the years, the university, which was established in 1891, has changed, from a small school for blacks to a full-fledged institution of higher education.

The Founder’s Day ceremony included speeches from local and statewide lawmakers, and featured the release of a short documentary highlighting the university’s history and its impact on West Virginia and the nation.

The university also hosted a concert with the Charleston Chamber Orchestra.

WVSU will continue celebrating its founding throughout the year, until homecoming in October.