Feb 8, 2022
Our guest speaker this morning was Dr. Sylvia Shurbutt. She spoke about Appalachian history and how we should all be proud to be considered Appalachian and West Virginians! During her presentation she mentioned that you could find out more about Shepherd University's Appalachian Studies program and how you can also assist her department and students by becoming an "Ally for Appalachia." Both of those links are below if you're interested in learning more about the program and/or are interested in the university's work in keeping Appalachian history & culture prominent in our area through "telling the Appalachian story and enhancing the state and region both economically and culturally." By becoming an "Ally for Appalachia" you can also support the Center’s Teacher Institutes, student scholarships, student travel and Celtic Roots experiences, community programs, and funding for economic and environmental projects.
Having received a Master of Arts in Appalachian History from Shepherd University (and their exchange program in Scotland at the University of the West of Scotland) after I retired from military service a few years ago, I can say that Shepherd's undergrad and graduate programs are amazing. They have been instrumental in preserving the history of our area and the entire Appalachian region (which as you heard this morning covers 13 states in our country). I'm happy to talk to anyone who may have questions about the program. I can also recommend some good books (fact and fiction) that can help you better understand the significance of Appalachia and West Virginia in particular.
Shepherd University Appalachian Studies information:
https://www.shepherd.edu/appalachian
Allies for Appalachia information:
https://www.shepherd.edu/appalachian/allies-for-appalachia