Senate 27

SENATE RESOLUTION 27

(By Senators Smith (Mr. President), Taylor, Oliverio, Garcia, Rose, Clements, Phillips, Hamilton, Grady, and Morris)

[Introduced February 3, 2026]

Designating February 4, 2026, as West Virginia University Day at the Capitol.

Whereas, West Virginia University is the state’s flagship, R1 institution, the first and largest land-grant university in West Virginia, which has been committed to providing steadfast service to the people of West Virginia for nearly 160 years; and

Whereas, West Virginia University’s twelve colleges and schools and three campuses are focused on education, discovery, health, service, and experiences, offering students the benefits and amenities of a major research institution while maintaining accessible and affordable degree programs; and

Whereas, West Virginia University offers more than 300 majors at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional levels, more than 170 undergraduate majors systemwide, that serve students’ interests, present opportunities for purposeful engagement, and meet workforce demands; and

Whereas, West Virginia University Extension serves as the primary outreach arm of West Virginia University with an office in each of the state’s 55 counties, where agents and specialists deliver trusted research and innovative solutions to improve the lives and livelihoods of all West Virginians; and

Whereas, West Virginia University Extension experts aid West Virginians in building economic prosperity through career exploration and workforce training opportunities for 21st century jobs; and

Whereas, West Virginia University Extension maintains an objective to prepare the next generation with leadership, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills through youth education and outreach programs, such as Energy Express, Career Readiness, STEM, and West Virginia’s state 4-H program, the largest youth organization in the state; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates February 4, 2026, as West Virginia University Day at the Capitol; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the President of West Virginia University Michael T. Benson and to West Virginia University Extension.