More than 600 alumni and friends of West Virginia University will gather Wednesday (Jan. 25) prior to the WVU -Marshall basketball games for the 10 th annual WVU and regional campuses luncheon.

The event, sponsored by the WVU Alumni Association, is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. at the Charleston Embassy Suites.

WVU President David C. Hardesty Jr. will address the sold-out crowd, and brief visits are expected by the men’s and women’s basketball coaches and players.

West Virginia first lady Gayle Manchin is expected to attend the luncheon and offer greetings on behalf of the governor.

Many government officials and legislative leaders also are expected to be in attendance.

The WVU -MU women’s game tips off at 5:30 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center ; the men’s game follows at 8 p.m. The games are a sellout.

WVU Fanfare, a reception for alumni and friends, is scheduled in the Civic Center North Hall from 6-7 p.m. Fanfare, which annually attracts thousands, is free and open to all WVU fans. It is being sponsored by the WVU Alumni Association, Mountaineer Athletic Club, WVU Foundation’s University Fund, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center , WVU Office of Institutional Advancement and WVU Office of Student Affairs.

The event features unique giveaways, game highlights, complimentary snacks and a Mountaineer Market for purchasing your favorite WVU merchandise.

New to WVU Fanfare this year is an exhibit that will bring attention to the University’s renowned forensic and investigative sciences program offered through the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences.

For more information on the Charleston activities, contact Kevin Berry, 304-293-4731.