A record crowd of alumni and friends will celebrate West Virginia University and its land-grant mission as part of the 17th Annual Capital Classic luncheon.

The event, hosted by the WVU Alumni Association, will be held at noon on Dec. 5 at the Charleston Civic Center (North Hall). More than 60 affiliates, divisions, units, schools, colleges of WVU, and corporate friends are set to participate in the luncheon which takes place prior to the WVU-Marshall men’s basketball game.

WVU President Jim Clements will talk about how the University – and major land-grant universities like WVU – excel in research areas that spark innovation, fuel commercialization and create jobs. Through videos and in person, he will introduce three individuals who are working every day to help WVU drive innovation in the 21st century.

“Our alumni, parents and friends of WVU are extremely passionate about the university. This luncheon is a great opportunity to celebrate and lift up WVU, its students, faculty and graduates,” said Steve Douglas, Alumni Association president and CEO.

West Virginia Senate President/Lt. Gov. Jeffrey V. Kessler will make brief remarks. WVU coach Bob Huggins and the men’s basketball team will also make a visit to the luncheon.

The WVU women’s team will face off against Marshall on Tuesday, Dec. 4. The WVU Alumni Association will host a pre-game reception for alumni and fans prior to the game from 5-7 p.m. at Charleston Marriott Town Center (200 Lee St. East, Charleston). Fans can enjoy light snacks and performances by the Mountaineer and WVU Cheerleaders.

Prior to the Dec. 5 men’s game, alumni and fans can gather at the North Hall of the Civic Center for a pre-game celebration from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event, which annually attracts thousands, is free and open to all WVU fans and is sponsored by the WVU Alumni Association. The pre-game celebration will include games and displays, a photo booth, unique giveaways, video highlights, live music, complimentary snacks, and Zide’s Mountaineer Market where fans can purchase their favorite WVU merchandise.

The Chesapeake Energy Capital Classic women’s game tips off at 7 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center (Dec. 4). Tickets for the women’s game can be purchased at the Civic Center Box Office or by calling 304-345-SHOW. The sold-out men’s game tips off on Wednesday (Dec. 5) at 7:30 p.m.

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tec/11/30/12

CONTACT: Tara Curtis; WVU Alumni Association
304.293.0972; tecurtis@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.