Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito visited Clendenin Elementary School in West Virginia, marking her first tour of the newly completed facility since its opening. The school was rebuilt after being severely damaged by the 2016 floods, a recovery effort supported by Senator Capito through collaboration with FEMA and local leaders.

"After years of working to secure resources and wait for construction to be completed, I am so glad that Clendenin students, faculty, and staff have a wonderful facility to call their own," Senator Capito stated. She emphasized the significance of the new school as a milestone in recovery efforts and a testament to the resilience of West Virginians.

During her visit, Senator Capito also hosted a Girls Rise Up event alongside Dr. Liberty Vittert Capito. The program aims to empower young women in West Virginia by focusing on education, fitness, and self-confidence. "I was also excited to bring my Girls Rise Up message—with the help of Liberty—to Clendenin and inspire the next generation," said Senator Capito.

Dr. Liberty Vittert Capito expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the event: "It’s such an honor to get to stand in front of the future of West Virginia with Senator Capito’s Girls Rise Up Program."

Clendenin Elementary School Principal Angel Gurski praised the event's impact on female students: "I feel that all females benefit from seeing strong, trailblazing women, and hearing their stories of resilience and determination."

Senator Capito has been instrumental in securing funding for Clendenin's recovery through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Funding awards were announced in December 2023 and June 2020 to aid in rebuilding efforts.

The Girls Rise Up program was launched by Senator Capito in 2015 and has since conducted 33 events aimed at fostering leadership qualities among young women in West Virginia.