WVU President Gordon Gee visits Ohio and Marshall counties on tour across West Virginia

MARSHALL COUNTY, W.Va. (WTRF) – WVU President Gordon Gee and other University representatives are hitting the road this summer to join alumni, friends and supporters across the Mountain State.

They want to visit each of the state’s 55 counties to show residents how grateful the university is for their support. On Monday they made a stop at Oglebay.

“Obviously, every institution has its strengths. You know, we lead the world in terms of Alzheimer’s research. We’re one of the most important institutions in the country in terms of engineering and robotics research. And obviously we have a great undergraduate environment. It’s a great college town and one of the safest, most enthusiastic college towns in the country. So we have a lot of opportunities. I tell everyone it’s the Goldilocks University, just the right size. It has everything, but it’s not so big that it’s overwhelming.”

Gordon Gee – President, West Virginia University

On Tuesday, Gee traveled to Marshall County.

Gee tells us that WVU is the flagship institution of the state, and one of their key jobs is to create ideas that lead to jobs for West Virginians. Their goal is to grow this area and attract more people to live here, and providing avenues for education is economic development is key.

“Education is a Pre-K though Life experience. Everyone needs to continue their education, not everyone needs to come to the university but everyone needs to continue their education. And you know we have people who want to have technical skills to go into other kinds of professions. I just believe that education for everyone is important.”

Gordon Gee – President, West Virginia University

President Gee says he’s grateful for all of the opportunities he’s been given, and that each day is a gift.

Their next stop will be at the Summersville Arena and Conference Center on Wednesday. There, President Gee will join Summersville Mayor Robert Shafer for a luncheon and gathering of WVU alumni, friends and supporters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTRF.