3-17-2006 |
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WEST VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY RENAMES LAND-GRANT PROGRAM FOR COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE GUS R. DOUGLASS
West Virginia State University (WVSU) renamed its land-grant, extension and research programs in honor of longtime West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass March 15, 2006. The programs are now officially designated as the Gus R. Douglass Land-Grant Institute for Agriculture, Consumer, Environmental, and Outreach Programs. “I’m very moved at everything that has transpired today, and I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Carter and everyone here at West Virginia State University for bestowing this tremendous honor on me,” said Commission Douglass in his remarks. “I’m honored that my contributions are thought to have a lasting significance to this University. I’m honored that you’ve arranged this wonderful ceremony today. But most of all, I’m honored that my name will be associated with this great University as it moves into the future.” WVSU President Dr. Hazo Carter Jr. also presented Commissioner Douglass with the 19th annual “Presidential Award for Community Service” and the WVSU “Scholar in Residence” award, given on rare occasions to lecturers, consultants, and other distinguished scholars who come to the WVSU campus. Dr. Carter said, “West Virginia State University has had many advocates for its efforts to re-establish its land-grant status and become a university. None have been more committed or steadfast than Commissioner Douglass. When obstacles arose, he could always be counted on for support. His efforts have been heroic and are greatly appreciated.” Dr. Carter went on to explain that Commissioner Douglass played a major role in locating an anaerobic digester on the campus to assist in research efforts. WVSU is one of the few campuses in the United States to have such as facility, allowing an opportunity for scientists and student to pursue research that will improve the environment and overall quality of life for West Virginians. The event was held at the Wilson University Union and was attended by numerous West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) staff members, staff and faculty of WVSU, and many of Commissioner Douglass’ family and friends. Senator Robert C. Byrd’s representative Anne Barth read a tribute letter from the Senator that was to be included in the day’s Congressional Record. Governor Joe Manchin’s representative Jim Pitrolo read a letter from the Governor’s Office, and State Treasurer John Perdue and State Forester Randy Dye gave remarks in honor of Commissioner Douglass. Dr. Orlando McMeans, Dean of the Gus R. Douglass Institute, explained the occasion and presented Mrs. Douglass with a bouquet of roses, and Reverend Frank Lee, former liaison for Governor Bob Wise, served as master of ceremonies. Commissioner Douglass received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from WVSU in 1998. He also participated as a guest lecturer at Exeter University in England as part of an Exeter / WVSU cooperative doctoral program. A lifelong Mason County resident, Commissioner Douglass was first elected to office in 1964. He is the senior agriculture commissioner in the country and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading voices for agriculture. He and his son Tom operate a 540-acre family farm in Mason County, specializing in beef cattle and grain production.
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more information, visit www.wvagriculture.org. |
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©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved |
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