In a significant step for agricultural education and research, West Virginia State University celebrated the groundbreaking of its new $50 million agricultural laboratory on Tuesday. WVSU President Ericke S. Cage, Governor Jim Justice, Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt, and various state and local officials attended the event.

“This is truly an historic day in the life of West Virginia State University as we break ground for this cutting-edge facility that will help drive the future of agriculture and agricultural research in West Virginia for generations to come,” President Cage remarked at the event. He thanked key political figures for their unwavering project support.

Governor Justice echoed Cage’s sentiments, highlighting agriculture’s vital role in West Virginia’s identity. “I’ve been all in on this project from the start because I know the difference it will make for our agriculture industry,” he stated. “This state-of-the-art research facility is an investment in our future, our farmers, and our students, who will be the ones to carry this proud tradition forward for generations to come.”

The new agricultural laboratory will provide modern laboratory space for WVSU and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. It will also house the newly established Purdy School of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources.

A standout feature of the project is the notable $2.5 million gift from the Purdy family, marking the largest cash donation in WVSU’s history. Verl Purdy, a West Virginia native and managing partner of Cadrillion Capital in Charlotte, North Carolina, emphasized supporting higher education to create opportunities for future generations. My siblings and I were first-generation college graduates, and we have devoted our lives to providing others with the same opportunity to succeed,” he shared.