Generation Charleston to Host Capitol Kickoff

In celebration of the annual Capitol Classic basketball showdown, Generation Charleston is featuring distinguished graduates of WVU and Marshall University during its monthly meeting.

The event is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13 at McKinley Carter Wealth Management, 2000 Dietrick Blvd.

The focus will be the importance of education in West Virginia and retaining young graduates.

“The Capitol Classic presented a perfect opportunity for Generation Charleston to organize a meeting around education,” said Danielle Waltz, co-captain of Generation Charleston’s Professional Development Team. “Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with dignitaries from both universities and learn more about higher education in West Virginia.”

Guests from Marshall will include Bill Bissett, chief of staff and vice president for communications; Dr. Gayle Ormiston, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Rudy Pauley, dean of the Graduate School of Education and Professional Development; Uday Tate, director of Marshall’s Executive MBA Program; and Rebecca Samples, assistant vice president of development.

Guests from West Virginia University will include Ellen Cappellanti with the WVU Board of Governors; David Hartley, WVU Extension agent; and Tara Curtis, WVU Alumni Association assistant director.

“We are thrilled and honored to have such a distinguished lineup of speakers for the Kickoff,” said Jason Pizatella, Professional Development Team co-captain. “The Capitol Classic each year sparks excitement for basketball fans throughout the region, and Generation Charleston is going to build on that excitement by incorporating issues important to the area’s emerging leaders.”

Spilman Thomas & Battle is sponsoring food for the event. Admission is free.