Yesterday, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivered a speech on the Senate floor honoring Dr. Gordon Gee, the outgoing president of West Virginia University (WVU). Dr. Gee retired this week after dedicating nearly two decades to the service of West Virginia.
Senator Capito praised Dr. Gee’s efforts in making education more accessible and partnering with Marshall University President Brad Smith to retain graduates in West Virginia. Under his leadership, WVU Medicine expanded by adding 20 hospitals.
In her remarks, Senator Capito stated: “I rise today to honor a dear friend of mine, who has dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the service of our great state of West Virginia, and, to the betterment of our students seeking higher education.”
Dr. Gee served as WVU President from 1981-1985 and again from 2013-2025. He was noted for his love for athletics and impact within the NCAA. Senator Capito mentioned that “his legacy will be felt at WVU for generations to come.”
She highlighted WVU’s significance: “To understand the impact that Gordon has made on West Virginia, I must expand on what WVU means to our state and people far outside our borders.”
Dr. Gee’s tenure saw WVU achieve R-1 University status in 2016 under his leadership, recognizing its exceptional research capacity.
Senator Capito also spoke about Dr. Gee’s personal connection to West Virginia: “Gordon believes in the power of education, and that belief has left its mark not only on Morgantown but across every corner of our great state.”
Dr. Gee played a crucial role in economic development initiatives like ‘First Ascent’ and ‘Ascend West Virginia,’ which aim to keep graduates in-state and attract remote workers.
Senator Capito concluded by expressing gratitude for Dr. Gee’s contributions: “Thank you for all you have done for West Virginia University— for your leadership, your vision, your heart, and all you’ve done for our state and the people who call it home.”
