SHEPHERDS TOWN, W.Va. — Shepherd University hosted a panel discussion Monday entitled “West Virginia Research and Innovation: A Catalyst for Better Health and Economic Growth”.
The presentation was a look at how university-based research is impacting economic development in the state and locally in the Eastern Panhandle.
U.S. Senators Shelly Moore Capito and Joe Machin spoke to those in attendance before the discussion about the work Shepherd University is doing to help push the ball forward in terms of research and innovation.
Machin spoke highly about the programs in place at Shepherd that are going to help the state in the long run.
“When you have the right type of leadership and you basically have the staff that really gets it and can motivate and inspire these bright students that they’re getting, we have the ability to solve our problems,” said Machin.
University President Mary Hendrix introduced the guest speakers and the panel. She said a key to economic growth is getting Shepherd grads to stay close to home.
“Our major goal is to train students for the jobs that are going to be out there welcoming them but to really make those jobs available inside our state,” said Hendrix.
“Research America! of West Virginia” was also in attendance. They released the results of a survey about medical and health research in the state.