West Virginia Northern Community College celebrates 50 years
Nine months of activities are planned to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of West Virginia Northern Community College, established in May 1972.
To kick off its 50th anniversary celebrations, West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) buried three time capsules, one on each of its campuses. Founded in May 1972, the college opened in Wheeling, then expanded over the years to include campuses in New Martinsville and Weirton. Commemoration of the anniversary will continue over the next nine months with a variety of activities planned.
A news release from WVNCC explains that the time capsules contain newspapers from the day they were buried, along with a face mask with the school logo on it, and a letter from WVNCC President Dr. Daniel Mosser. The time capsules will be opened in 2047 during celebrations of the college's 75th anniversary.
A series of videos produced by WVNCC will be released monthly through May 2022 highlighting community members who have been impacted by the college. Other activities will include a 1970s-themed costume party for Halloween and an outdoor movie night in the spring, also with a 1970s theme. The WVNCC Foundation is starting a year-long fundraising campaign dubbed "Heart of Gold" and is sponsoring a gala celebration in May as the culmination of the anniversary events.
Dr. Mosser said, "Since I arrived at Northern two years ago, it seems that everyone I meet has their own Northern story about how the college has impacted their family in a positive way. Northern's 50th anniversary is a great opportunity to pause and reflect on the leaders, students, faculty and staff who have made this college the remarkable community-focused institution that it is today."
Mosser went on to extend an invitation to the whole community to take part, saying, "The community has been so instrumental in our success, we would like to give back and have them take part in our celebration. This is going to be a huge party over the next nine months, and everyone is invited to take part in our celebration."
The college will involve local businesses by delivering what it calls a “Party in a Box," which includes party supplies and food, encouraging people to post pictures and well wishes on social media.