PHOTOS: Capito Attends Inauguration of Shepherd University President Cameron B. Wesson

SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. - Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) attended the inauguration ceremony of Dr. Cameron B. Wesson as the 17th president of Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, W.Va.

The ceremony, which was held at the Shepherd University Wellness Center, brought together university leadership, faculty, students, alumni, and members of the community to celebrate President Wesson and mark a new chapter for the university.

"Shepherd University has long provided West Virginians with quality learning opportunities, equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their future careers." Senator Capito said. "I was pleased to join the university community for this momentous occasion as they begin this new and exciting chapter, and I look forward to my continued work with Dr. Wesson to build on the university's achievements and expand opportunities for the next generation of leaders in our state."

"I am humbled to be named the 17th President of Shepherd University. I have already learned that our people are our greatest strength, including the many supporters who believe in our mission and in the success of our students. I am especially grateful to Senator Capito, Congressman Moore, and Mayor Gatz for helping celebrate this special occasion, and to Governor Morrisey for sending his greetings in recognition of the Investiture," said Shepherd University President Dr. Cameron B. Wesson.

BACKGROUND:

Senator Capito has been a longtime supporter of Shepherd University and its mission to prepare lifelong learning and success for students across eastern West Virginia. In November, Senator Capito visited the university to tour their Agribusiness Incubator, which she helped secure a $1.4 million CDS award for in Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). Most recently, she visited the campus to receive updates on the university's athletic facility and dining hall alongside President Wesson.

In addition, Senator Capito has secured the following funds for projects at Shepherd University:

• (FY22) $4,000,000 CDS award for university police department technology upgrades.
• (FY 22) $135,000 CDS award for Internet2-connected Science DMZ.
• (FY22) $70,000 CDS award for ListenLearnEngage Initiative.
• (FY22) $36,785 CDS award for technology upgrades.
• (FY22) $2,411,854 CDS award for Shepherd University East Loop upgrades
• (FY22) $110,697 CDS award for DLT "Bridges to Degrees" Distance Learning and Dual Enrollment program.
• (FY23) $609,000 CDS award for chemistry department revitalization.
• (FY23) $657,000 CDS award for the K-12 Teacher program.
• (FY23) $20,000 CDS award for special education curriculum development.
• (FY24) $2,235,000 CDS award for technology upgrades.

President Wesson began his tenure as Shepherd University's 17th president on July 1, 2026. He brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education leadership, including his previous role as provost and vice president of academic affairs at La Salle University.

A photo from the event is included below:

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) attends the inauguration of Shepherd University's 17th President, Dr. Cameron B. Wesson, at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, W.Va. on Friday, October 30, 2026.

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