Davis & Elkins College proudly announces a month-long celebration marking its 120th anniversary with a series of events under the theme “A September to Remember.” Established through the generous donations of Senators and local citizens, the College first opened its doors on September 21, 1904. The celebrations will honor its rich history and vibrant community with activities scheduled throughout the month.
Three U.S. Senators figure prominently into the College’s rich history. Most commonly, Henry G. Davis and Stephen B. Elkins are held in highest regard for their influence and efforts that would help establish the College. Additionally, Jennings Randolph’s contributions as athletic director of D&E would help the College obtain national recognition. Also of note are the efforts of Rev. Augustus Houston Hamilton, an eminent figure in the Presbyterian Church, which were of significant importance to the early growth of Davis & Elkins College. D&E would expand from its previous location in south Elkins to its current campus thanks to further donations from Mrs. Hallie Davis Elkins and Senator Davis’s estate. These donations included the acquisition of Halliehurst and Graceland, which remain integral parts of the College campus.
The College’s celebration kicked off with D&E Weekend Around West Virginia. From September 5 to September 8, a series of celebratory gatherings were held in Martinsburg, Elkins, Morgantown, Parkersburg, Fayetteville, Charleston, Wheeling, West Liberty, and Huntington.
Celebrations continue on September 14 with Prospective Student-Athlete Day, when all potential Senators have the opportunity to connect with the coach of their respective sport and gather pertinent information about their future commitment to D&E. For information regarding Prospective Student-Athlete Day and contacting coaches to register, please visit https://senatornation.com/staff-directory.
The Presbyterian Peacemaking Program also begins on September 14 and continues throughout the week. The College will host Dumitri Roibu, Executive President of YMCA Moldova. Roibu is known for his significant contributions to peace and refugee support and will engage with students, faculty, and the local community, sharing insights from his extensive work in promoting peace and justice.
The latter half of the month features many single-day activities. The College will celebrate Constitution Day on September 17 as the Intermediate Court of Appeals hears arguments in Harper-McNeely Auditorium. The arguments begin at 9:30 a.m. and are open to the local community. September 18 sees the D&E Men’s Soccer Team challenging the University of Charleston at 4:00 p.m. on Nuttall Field. Preceding the game, the campus community will come together for an all-campus photo capturing the College community in its 120th year.
On September 20, D&E encourages the local community to participate in both its Day of Service and September to Remember Music Festival, supporting the Elkins/Randolph County YMCA and highlighting the College’s dedication to service and community engagement. The Music Festival features artists Jah Works, Shane Meade & The Sound, and Aubrey Rey. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. at Citizens Bank of West Virginia Amphitheatre at Davis & Elkins College, with the show beginning at 7:00 p.m., and admission is free. This day also marks the beginning of Family Weekend, providing families the unique opportunity to enjoy the many pleasures of D&E’s beautiful scenery and facilities.
On September 21, the Augusta Fiddler’s Reunion will fill downtown Elkins with live performance of traditional fiddling. The event promises to provide a lively cultural experience and a joyful celebration of Appalachian music and tradition. For the full schedule of events for the Augusta Fiddler’s Reunion, visit https://augustaartsandculture.org/events/fiddlers-reunion-2024/.
Week four of the celebrations begin on September 24 with the International Student Flag Raising Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at Liberal Arts Hall. This event showcases the unity, pride, and global spirit that defines the D&E student body. On September 25, the D&E Women’s Soccer team will face West Virginia State University at 7:00 p.m. on Nuttall Field. The month-long celebration will wrap up as the College welcomes the 86th Mountain State Forest Festival to campus for many festivities, culminating with the coronation of Maid Silvia on October 4.
The College invites the community and alumni to join in celebrating this landmark occasion as we honor our past and look forward to the future of Davis & Elkins College.
