We are proud that Governor Patrick Morrisey and his team spent time in Morgantown to celebrate the University’s role in the state — from rallying Mountaineer fans on game day, to engaging with University leadership, and supporting student-athletes through new NIL legislation. WVU remains committed to being at the heart of conversations about community, growth, and opportunity for all West Virginians. Recap more below!
Step Into the Game: Backyard Brawl Mountaineer Mile
A packed Milan Puskar Stadium during the Backyard Brawl between WVU and Pitt
Governor Patrick Morrisey helped kick off game day in Morgantown by leading the first-ever Backyard Brawl Mountaineer Mile, a one-mile walk around Milan Puskar Stadium. Fans in gold and blue filled the route, turning the morning into a celebration of pride and anticipation for the rivalry matchup. Two fans walked away with game tickets, adding to an event that blended community spirit with one of college football’s most storied traditions.
By the end of the day, Mountaineers had plenty to celebrate — the debut of the Mountaineer
Mile and a hard-fought victory over Pitt. Let’s Go!
Supporting Student-Athletes: NIL Bill Signing at WVU
WVU President Michael T. Benson, Governor Patrick Morrisey, and Athletic Director Wren Baker during the signing of the NIL bills
Governor Morrisey held a ceremonial signing for two NIL bills at the Milan Puskar Center. This legislation is set to change the game for West Virginia student-athletes by leveling the playing field with other states and ensuring athletes can benefit from their personal brands while keeping WVU competitive in recruiting and retention.
Morrisey was joined by President Michael T. Benson, Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker, Head Football Coach Rich Rodriguez, and Delegate Joe Statler. The event underscored the University’s commitment to supporting athletes both on and off the field, while showcasing the collaboration between WVU and state leaders to advance student success.
“More than 30 states have passed NIL-related legislation since the NCAA adopted an interim policy in 2021, allowing student-athletes to profit off their personal brands. Now West Virginia joins those states to be able to open up those opportunities and make recruiting more competitive,” Gov. Morrisey said. He added, “I want to do everything I can to help WVU and other higher education institutions succeed in this new NIL framework.”
Charting Growth: WVU Board of Governors Meeting
Governor Patrick Morrisey speaks during the WVU Board of Governors meeting
At the September WVU Board of Governors meeting, Governor Morrisey urged members to “think big” about enrollment and growth opportunities. He emphasized the University’s role in what he called West Virginia’s “economic backyard brawl,” pointing to higher education as essential to workforce development and the state’s future.
His remarks came as Fabrizio D’Aloisio, our new vice president for enrollment, rolled out a plan to boost growth and retention — including raising the number of West Virginia high school graduates who choose WVU from 10–11% to 15–16%.
President Benson reinforced that message, noting WVU is ready to “outwork
and outperform” in partnership with state leaders. Morrisey echoed the sentiment,
emphasizing his commitment to continued collaboration to build a stronger future
for West Virginia.