Partners in Education luncheon

West Virginia’s First Lady to give keynote address at annual Partnerships in Education luncheon.

West Virginia’s First Lady Gayle Manchin will be the keynote speaker at the 17^th annual Partnerships in Education luncheon to be held Thursday (Oct. 27) at West Virginia University at Parkersburg.

The noon luncheon will be held in the college’s multi-purpose room. Theme of the program is WV First Lady Gayle Manchin

“Inspiring Minds, Inspiring Lives.” More than 275 representatives from business, industry and Wood County schools are anticipated.

Partnerships in Education is a program sponsored by the Education Alliance, the Chamber of Commerce of the Mid Ohio Valley, and the Education and Business Foundation of the Chamber of Commerce. Begun in 1985, the Partnerships program matches schools with businesses. Wood County was the first in the state to have 100% of its schools partnered with a business or industry. The Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in making the matches and continues to play an active role in the program.

The partnerships provide opportunities for businesses and schools to create synergistic opportunities for volunteerism, shared projects and educational experiences. Purpose of the luncheon is to celebrate and recognize the program’s schools and partners. The Parkersburg Catholic High School Bell Choir will provide entertainment during the luncheon.

The First Lady grew up in Beckley. She received her bachelor’s degree in language arts and education from West Virginia University and a master’s degree in educational technology leadership from Salem International University. She and Governor Manchin have three children and six grandchildren.

Mrs. Manchin has been a teacher in Marion County schools and a professor at Fairmont State College while also being active in United Way and community service groups in the Fairmont area. She is a national board member of The Center for Study of Economic Diversity, Inc. in Texas, and serves by appointment to the National Education Commission of the States. In addition she serves as a Commissioner on the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service, Vice Chair of the Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Families, and as a partner on the WV Partnership to Promote Community Well Being Commission. She is the Nominating Chair on the executive board of The Education Alliance and the President of the Vandalia Rotary Club of Charleston.

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For additional information, contact:
Connie Dziagwa
WVU Parkersburg
Executive Director
Institutional Advancement
(304-424-8203)