Good morning, Morgantown.

Starting Feb. 10, Morris L.

Hayhurst LaunchLab partners with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center to offer weekly startup support sessions that include one-on-one coaching, Verizon Small Business Digital Ready content from 4-4:30 p.m. & open Ask Us Anything discussions from 4:30-5 p.m., held in person and online.

A new report highlights the strong economic impact of WVU and its health system on our region.

President Michael T. Benson and Albert L. Wright, Jr. detailed findings from the Tripp Umbach Economic Impact Report (Jan. 29) that show their local benefits.

West Virginia University and the West Virginia Public Education Collaborative with WVU Extension will host Remake Learning Days from May 4-15 to offer hands-on learning for pre-K to 12 students and families across the state.

The festival spotlights science, arts, outdoor learning, and more (most events are free).

WVU Career Services now offers Forage (a free job simulation website) that lets students and professors explore workplace projects from companies like JPMorgan and Pfizer.

The site is available on the Career Services tab and awards certificates for job applications.

President Michael T. Benson highlighted a report showing WVU and its health system generate over $14 billion for the state, and he announced WVU Extension Day will be held on Feb.

4 in Charleston (with exhibits in the Capitol Upper Rotunda and a budget request meeting).

West Virginia lawmakers introduced five education bills including a four-day school week pilot, a ban on electronic devices for young students, a reduced school day count, American flag handling tests, and a civics exam for graduation.

The proposals, presented yesterday, are under review (with public meetings set for feedback).

The City of Morgantown will relaunch its Citizens Academy in 2026 with a redesigned format that features longer classes — an expanded curriculum and new opportunities for residents to learn about local government operations.

WVU School of Medicine officials announced that a multidisciplinary team secured a $1.4M NIH grant to develop a gene therapy aimed at reversing inherited blindness.

The ongoing research in Morgantown will explore new treatment options (with further study planned).

A new report by the American Lung Association shows West Virginia received failing grades on tobacco prevention funding and policies, with very low spending on quit-smoking programs + receiving poor marks in multiple areas.

The report urges lawmakers to boost taxes and restore funding to lower tobacco-related deaths.

WVU's baseball team uses its on-campus Biomechanics and Performance Center in Kendrick Family Ballpark to get data-driven training ahead of its season opener against Georgia Southern.

Opened in March 2025, the facility uses cameras + force plates to help coaches adjust pitchers’ mechanics and guard against injuries.

Marcus Caldeira, a top forward from WVU men's soccer, signed a one-year MLS contract with Minnesota United pending his P-1 Visa and club options for future seasons; his move promises to boost his professional career.

WVU's Jordan Harrison and Baylor's Darianna Littlepage-Buggs (former teammates since elementary school) will face off when Baylor visits Morgantown for a Big 12 game on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Former WVU defensive back Jahmile Addae has been hired by the Miami Dolphins as their cornerbacks coach for the NFL’s 2026 season.

He left his role with the Bills and his hiring marks a new step in his coaching journey (highlighting his local roots).

Baylor Bears vs. West Virginia Mountaineers Basketball

4-6 p.m. — Mountainlair Student Union — Free trial for streaming — Catch the live action as Baylor faces West Virginia in an exciting college basketball showdown.

Ray Scott LIVE at Tipsy Teeze

8-11 p.m. — Tipsy Teeze Bar, Grill and Music Hall — Tickets available — Experience critically acclaimed Nashville star Ray Scott performing live with support from Clay Justice.

Texas Tech Red Raiders at West Virginia Mountaineers Basketball

1-3 p.m. — Mountainlair Student Union — Cost info not provided — Morgantown energy activated with Texas Tech in the building.

UCF Knights vs. West Virginia Mountaineers Women's Basketball

7-9 p.m. — Hope Coliseum — Ticket info available — It's more than a game, it's a statement as WVU takes on UCF and leaves it all on the court!

Black Violin Full Circle Tour

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Metropolitan Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the powerful fusion of classical and hip-hop music as Black Violin redefines musical boundaries.

Bridgerton Trivia Night

5-8 p.m. — Stone Tower Brews — Supports Monongalia County Child Advocacy Center — Prove your wit at this spirited trivia night inspired by Bridgerton.

Oklahoma State Cowgirls vs. West Virginia Mountaineers Women's Basketball

2-4 p.m. — Mountainlair Student Union — Tickets available — The grind never stops! Bring the energy, Mountaineers!

Gardner Winter Music Festival

5 p.m. – 10 p.m. — South Middle School — $5 for adults, free for musicians and kids under 7 — Celebrate winter with Appalachian music, dance, and workshops.