With the arrival of March comes not only the promise of blooming flowers and rejuvenated landscapes but also an important day for the continued future of our great University: the WVU Day of Giving. As alumni, faculty, staff, and students eagerly anticipate the vibrant spirit of spring, we also prepare to come together in celebration of our university's enduring legacy and shared commitment to excellence. The WVU Day of Giving stands as a testament to our Mountaineer spirit, igniting a wave of generosity that propels our alma mater forward into the future.
As WVU alumni, we believe in the life-changing impact of a WVU education. We have personally experienced the opportunities it provides, the challenges it helps us to overcome, and the lasting connections it continues to foster. Even after receiving our diplomas, our shared experiences and memories as Mountaineers continue to be a part of our lives, no matter where we live. Those moments were made possible by the generations of alumni who came before us.
And now, we’re responsible for ensuring that future generations of Mountaineers have access to the same world-class education and unparalleled experiences that have defined our lives in countless ways.
This year holds special significance as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the WVU Alumni Association. For over a century and a half, our association has stood as a proud beacon of unity, support, and Mountaineer pride, resonating across the globe. From our humble beginnings to our present-day achievements, we have unwaveringly upheld our commitment to fostering connections, enriching lives, and advancing the enduring mission of West Virginia University.
At the core of our association lies the spirit of giving—a selfless endeavor dedicated to supporting our beloved alma mater, ensuring that future generations of Mountaineers have access to the same transformative experiences that have profoundly shaped our lives. A testament to this spirit is the annual WVU Day of Giving.
Far beyond just a fundraising event, WVU’s annual Day of Giving reflects the unwavering dedication and generosity of our alumni and friends. It’s a day when Mountaineers from all walks of life unite to make a difference, investing in the future of our university and leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
The impact of giving extends far and wide, touching every facet of our university community. For our students, it means access to scholarships, resources, and opportunities that empower them to pursue their dreams, making a positive impact on the world. For our alumni, it means staying connected to our alma mater and actively shaping its future. And for the Erickson Alumni Center, it preserves the legacy of a place where Mountaineers, old and new, meet to celebrate our shared heritage.
One tangible way to support our alma mater is by becoming a member of the WVU Alumni Association. Your membership provides vital support for programs and initiatives that benefit current students and fellow alumni. By joining, you become part of a community dedicated to preserving the traditions and values that make WVU special, while simultaneously unlocking access to numerous member benefits.
Another meaningful way to leave your mark is by purchasing a brick or paver to be placed in our Ware Family Alumni Walkway at the Erickson Alumni Center. These lasting tributes create a tangible link between past, present, and future generations of Mountaineers. Whether commemorating your graduation year, honoring a loved one, or simply celebrating your Mountaineer pride, a brick or paver serves as a timeless reminder of your connection to WVU.
For those who bleed gold and blue, a HAIL WV season pass is a football game day must-have. Three hours prior to each home football game, HAIL WV members enjoy their own dedicated parking spot and access to a special reception in the Kennedy Club Room at the Erickson Alumni Center. There, you can enjoy unlimited food, drinks, Mountaineer spirit, special guests and much more. Often labeled as “game day’s best-kept secret,” we’re thrilled to offer HAIL WV membership as one of our giving opportunities on the WVU Day of Giving.
For those passionate about academic support, consider contributing to scholarship funds that provide much-needed financial assistance to deserving students. Your donation could be all that a student needs in being able to pursue their dreams at WVU. By investing in scholarships, you empower the next generation of Mountaineers to reach their full potential. Many of our alumni chapters around the country will be raising funds for their chapter scholarships to support a student, and in some cases, multiple students, from their areas as they pursue an education here in Morgantown. You can find which chapters are raising funds for their scholarships here.
As we reflect on our time at WVU and its profound impact on our lives, let’s seize this opportunity to give back and ensure that future generations of Mountaineers have the same transformative opportunities that we did. Together, we can preserve the legacy of our alma mater and continue to uphold the Mountaineer spirit for years to come.
Yet, above all, giving is about moments—those unforgettable experiences that define our time at WVU and linger with us long after we bid farewell to campus. Whether it's the roar of the crowd at Milan Puskar Stadium, the camaraderie shared at the Mountainlair, or the quiet strolls past the familiar architecture and timeless buildings in Woodburn Circle, these moments remind us of our identity and the values we stand for as Mountaineers.
Thank you for your unwavering support, boundless generosity and enduring love for WVU. Together, let’s continue to climb higher, reach farther and make our alma mater profoundly proud.
Let's Go!
Kevin Berry ('94, '95)WVU Vice President of Alumni Relations
CEO of the WVU Alumni Association, Inc.