Academy class represents the very best of WVU

These dreamers, visionaries and leaders are the newest members of the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni -- recipients of the highest honor bestowed upon our graduates.

They are anything but ordinary. In fact, they are four extraordinary West Virginia University alumni who have gone on to be pioneers in their fields. These dreamers, visionaries and leaders are the newest members of the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni — recipients of the highest honor bestowed upon our graduates.

These men and women value their University education and experiences. And, their stories, like those of many Mountaineers, are heartwarming and speak to the strength, determination, commitment and pride that embody the Mountaineer spirit.

Watch this video on our inductees:

Judith Hayes, ‘82 BS, ‘83 MS

As chief of NASA Johnson Space Center’s Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, Judith Hayes helps our astronauts soar for the stars. View her story.

Thomas Menighan, ‘74 BS, ‘14 ScD (Honorary)

Dr. Thomas Menighan, after managing his cancer-patient wife’s home treatments, launched a cutting-edge home infusion practice. As executive vice president and CEO of the American Pharmacists Association and an entrepreneur, he promotes solutions that improve lives. View his story.

Rustin Moore, ‘86 BS

Dr. Rustin Moore is a world-renowned equine surgeon best known for giving Molly the pony a new leg and a new lease on life. He is also executive director of the Veterinary Medical Center at The Ohio State University. View his story.

James Valenti, ‘00 BM

On stages around the world, James Valenti combines elegant musicianship with profound emotion to craft an opera style for the 21st century. View his story.

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

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