West Virginia University’s purchase of the former Mountain State University campus in Beckley was completed today (June 1), and President Gordon Gee said University officials hope to offer classes there by Fall 2016.
“This is truly a unique opportunity to better serve the citizens of southern West Virginia with niche and relevant academic programs that meet the needs of the region,” Gee said. “It is also an opportunity to partner with area colleges and universities on additional educational pathways.”
Carolyn Long, campus president of the WVU Institute of Technology, will lead the WVU Beckley campus while continuing her leadership role at Tech.
“Because of Carolyn’s background as a former member of the WVU Board of Governors and now as campus president at our divisional campus in Montgomery, she has a great understanding of the role West Virginia University plays in providing access to our state citizens, especially in the southern part of our state,” Provost Joyce McConnell said. “We are delighted that she has accepted this dual role as we gear up for a wonderful educational environment in Beckley – which, we feel confident, will complement what is being offered at Tech.”
Mountain State’s Board of Trustees Chairman Max Beard called the agreement historic, saying, “As a native of Beckley I believe the arrival of WVU in Beckley is the most significant event in the history of our city. This promising opportunity would not have happened without the relentless commitment and dedicated economic development efforts of MSU Trustee Elmer Coppoolse, managing partner of The Resort of Glade Springs. His contribution to this transaction is unparalleled.”
Following a review under an exclusive due diligence agreement entered into in November, and then extended, WVU offered to purchase the Beckley campus land and assets for $8 million on Dec. 31. The Mountain State board accepted the offer, pending court approval, which was granted Jan. 16. Today’s action completes the purchase.
