NC West Virginia News

More than 1,000 graduates from West Virginia University (WVU) celebrated their achievements during two Commencement ceremonies held on December 21 at the Coliseum. Addressing the graduates, WVU President Gordon Gee emphasized the value of their degrees and encouraged them to carry the Mountaineer spirit into their future endeavors. “As you take your next steps into the wider world always remember that your WVU degree has value and will open doors for you, just as it has for thousands of successful alumni before you,” Gee stated.

During the morning ceremony, Hoppy Kercheval, a notable alumnus and vice president of operations for MetroNews, received a Presidential Honorary Degree. This recognition came shortly after he announced his retirement from his statewide talk show, “Talkline.” David Riggle, a dedicated teacher at Tyler Consolidated Middle School known for his commitment to service, was also honored with a Presidential Honorary Degree.

Vice Provost Mark Gavin echoed Gee's sentiments about resilience and perseverance. He said, “Reflect on your own efforts — your own triumphs, the stops and starts, and all the times you thought you couldn’t go any farther... It’s that grit and determination that defines the Mountaineer spirit.”

Among those recognized were AJ Rodriguez from Austin, Texas—a first-generation college student and soccer team member—and Robin Anderson from Worthington. Anderson earned her Regents Bachelor of Arts degree at age 60 while balancing full-time work with personal responsibilities.

In an afternoon address, Dr. Clay Marsh encouraged graduates to give back to society. Nitin Kumbhani—an alumnus awarded a Presidential Honorary Degree—advised students to find passion in their pursuits and highlighted hard work as key to success.

Amelia Adams of Weirton exemplified dedication by transitioning from a surgical pathology lab technician role to becoming a pathologists’ assistant and faculty member in WVU's program.

President Gee referenced "Wicked," saying: “Madame Morrible told the students of Shiz University ‘We have the highest hopes for some of you.’ But unlike her, I am confident that all of our students will achieve success.”

The event also featured Duncan Lorimer and Maura McLaughlin as faculty grand marshals. Other distinguished graduates included Gabriel Turak from Morgantown who completed dual degrees in mathematics and electrical engineering in 2.5 years; Ciara Davis-McCloy earned a master’s degree in economics as part of an inaugural cohort at WVU's John Chambers College of Business and Economics.

The university provided additional resources including photo galleries and ceremony recordings for those interested in revisiting Commencement Weekend highlights.