GLENVILLE, WV - 鶹Ƶ alumni and friends gathered on campus for the 2026 Alumni Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 25 in the Mollohan Campus Community Center Ballroom. Those in attendance enjoyed a dinner buffet and the presentation of the 2026 GSU Alumni Association Awards.
Alumnus of the Year – Dr. Carrie Kirkpatrick-Summers
The evenings prestigious Alumnus of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Carrie Kirkpatrick-Summers, Class of 1998. The award is given to a graduate of Glenville State for outstanding contributions in their chosen field or for outstanding personal accomplishments. Kirkpatrick-Summers most recently served as the Director of Regulatory Environmental and Affairs Programs with West Virginia Department of Agriculture. Prior to that, she worked as a Forensic Scientist for West Virginia State Police for 23 years assigned to the drug section. She was the supervisor for her last 13 years with the WVSP.
The Glenville, West Virginia native attended GSC to study chemistry and biology and was a member of the Lady Pioneer Volleyball team from 1994-1998; Kirkpatrick-Summers also ran track and won the prestigious Clarissa Williams Award in 1998.
After graduating from Glenville State, Kirkpatrick-Summers went on to earn a master’s degree in Leadership Studies from Marshall University (2020) and a Doctorate of Executive Leadership from the University of Charleston (2024). The research for her dissertation focused on trauma in first responders, specifically leaders in the law enforcement community. This is something Kirkpatrick-Summers is passionate about and will continue working on as it is a much-needed area of research.
She received a Law Enforcement and Victims Assistance Award in 2016 for the United States Attorney Southern District of West Virginia Outstanding Drug and Violent Crime Investigations for United States v. Christopher Ayash and, in 2022, was an ACBSP Student Showcase Winner for Region 2 for her presentation, “Polarity Management: A Lesson from Science about mapping Collaborative Problem Solving.” She is also a Black Belt in the Lean Six Sigma process-improvement program.
In her spare time, Kirkpatrick-Summers enjoys exercising, watching sporting events, and spending time with family, particularly her son Wyatt Kirkpatrick, nephew Keegan Kirkpatrick, and niece Ava Kirkpatrick.
Kirkpatrick-Summers is the Point Pleasant Junior/Senior High Cross Country Track coach. She also enjoys giving back and helping others. She has had the opportunity to volunteer at Comfort Zone Camp, which is a camp for children who have lost a parent/guardian or caregiver. Despite going through tremendous loss, these amazingly resilient children gain a lot of tools to help themselves heal and grow by attending the camp. She is also certified in mental health first aid.
“I am heavily rooted in Glenville and, working across West Virginia, it is amazing to me to see the connections complete strangers have to Glenville. The foundation that I built while playing volleyball and majoring in a science field set the stage for my success as an adult. I am thankful to have grown up in a community where everyone knows everyone and it taught me the importance of family,” Kirkpatrick-Summers said.
Alumni Achievement Award – Daniel Reed
The Alumni Achievement Award was presented to Daniel Reed, Class of 1993. This award is given to a graduate who has distinguished themselves in their chosen field. Reed is a writer, researcher, investigator, speaker, and counselor, and the founder of the West Virginia Skeptics Society, a Center for Inquiry affiliate dedicated to promoting rational thinking and scientific inquiry. He is a regular contributor to Skeptical Inquirer magazine, where his investigations examine cryptozoology, the paranormal, pseudoscience, and urban legends through a critical lens. Reed is also a member of the Center for Inquiry’s Speakers Bureau, sharing his research and insights with audiences across the country. By day, Reed has served as the counselor at Gilmer County High School for the past fifteen years.
After graduating from Glenville State, he later earned a master’s degree in counseling from West Virginia University. He has taught psychology, sociology, and counseling at both undergraduate and graduate levels. His lectures blend academic rigor with a passion for folklore, critical thinking, and the scientific method.
Reed is the creator of Critical Thinking Day, officially recognized in West Virginia with gubernatorial proclamations. Celebrated annually on February 15, the event highlights the importance of logical analysis, evidence-based reasoning, and informed decision-making in an age of misinformation. He is also a contributor and co-editor of the forthcoming book, Fringe Science: The Intersection of Science and Belief.
In 2015, Reed published My Senior Year: A Guide for High School Seniors and Their Parents – a guidebook for students and parents who are considering post-graduation plans and goals.
Outside his professional work, Reed has studied and practiced amateur magic, martial arts (earning a black belt in karate), blacksmithing, carpentry, piano, and naturalism (earning certification as a Master Naturalist). His wide-ranging pursuits reflect the same curiosity and hands-on spirit that drive his intellectual work.
Outstanding Teacher Award – Paula (Jones) Oliverio
One of two Outstanding Teacher Awards were presented to Paula (Jones) Oliverio, Class of 1986. These awards are given to someone who has distinguished themselves during their teaching career.
Oliverio is a Philippi, West Virginia native and is currently serving as a Reading Interventionist for Pleasants County Schools, is the Arts Education Coordinator for the nonprofit organization, Artsbridge, Inc., and is an adjunct faculty member at WVU Parkersburg. She also previously worked as a special educator and elementary teacher in West Virginia for 40 years.
She earned a degree in elementary and special education from Glenville State College. She was also very active on campus as a member of the Onimgohow Players, Alpha Psi Omega, and the Kanawhachen staff.
After graduating from Glenville State, Oliverio went on to earn two additional master’s degrees from West Virginia University.
She is a world traveler, having visited all seven continents and nearly 100 countries. She completed a teaching fellowship in Uganda, Africa and has traveled internationally with People to People Student Ambassadors for more than 15 years.
Over the years, Oliverio has also performed with multiple community theater groups and at various events. She regularly serves as Margaret Blennerhassett on Blennerhassett Island State Park for tours and educational events.
Oliverio was named Pleasants County Teacher of the Year in 2011, earned the Autism Mentor Award, was the People to People Student Ambassador Leader of the Year, and was the Key Club Advisor of the Year. She has also served as her local West Virginia Education Association chapter president for more than 20 years and has been a Faculty Senate president for 20+ years.
In addition to her educational and theatrical pursuits, Oliverio and her therapy dog, Arlo, also respond to American Red Cross events and are a HOPE Canine Crisis team and can volunteer or be deployed as needed.
She serves on the Community Advisory Panel for Syensqo and is a member of the Pleasants County Pay It Forward Committee that works to aid students and families in need.
She has also previously served on the Board of Directors for the Actors Guild of Parkersburg and Artsbridge.
She and her husband Joseph reside in Belmont, West Virginia and they are the parents of a daughter, Alyssa who works and resides in Parkersburg, West Virginia.
“Glenville State allowed me to continue my education and lay a foundation of learning that I have carried through my adult life. I reflect back on my experiences at GSU with wonderful memories and tried throughout my professional career and personal life to represent Glenville State in a positive manner and to be an ambassador globally,” she said.
Outstanding Teacher Award – Dan White
The second Outstanding Teacher Award was presented to Dan White, Class of 1997. White is currently completing his twentieth year as Band Director for the Parkersburg High School Big Red Band. White previously taught at Mount Hope High School (1998), Capital Christian Academy in Upper Marlboro, MD (1998-2000), Meadow Bridge High School (2000-2001), and Huntington High School (2001-2006) before coming to Parkersburg High School. He has accumulated 30 years of service as a teacher and has plans to retire in June 2026.
After graduating from Glenville State with a degree in music education in December 1997, White went on to complete graduate hours at Marshall University, West Virginia University, and Salem University. He has also taken guitar teaching workshops offered through Duquesne University two different times and is currently enrolled in judging courses for concert and marching band.
During his time at PHS, both the marching and concert bands have received high ratings. The jazz band has consistently received superior ratings. The band has visited Disney, participated in different bowl games, and was invited to march in the 2025 National Veteran’s Parade in Washington, DC. White has had one of the most actively performing high school bands in the Mountain State.
He also served as Guest Conductor of the 鶹Ƶ Honor Band (twice) and the Wyoming and Fayette County Honor Band. He also had his eldest son and daughter in his band while they were in high school, something he calls a highlight of his career.
He received the Spirit of Music Award in October 2024 as part of the WV Marching Band Invitational, and he was named the Volunteer of the Year in 2025 by the Pleasants County Neighbor Network. White was also the Grand Marshall of the Parkersburg Easter Parade in 2026.
In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, camping, playing guitar, classic cars, traveling, and visiting antique and thrift shops.
He and his wife Jennifer White reside in Saint Marys, West Virginia. Jennifer attended GSC as well as his brother Tim ‘96, his sister in-law Kimberly (Hackett) White ‘82, and several of his children (Joshua ‘15, Eli ‘22, and Sam, who is on track to graduate in December 2026).
Outstanding Young Alumna – Catie Pelfrey
The Outstanding Young Alumna Award was presented to Catherine “Catie” Pelfrey, Class of 2021. This is one of two awards presented to recent graduates who have achieved early and remarkable success in their careers.
Pelfrey is currently serving as a Trauma Surgery/Critical Care Physician Assistant at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. The team there works to provide efficient care to critical patients at the busiest Level 2 trauma center in the Buckeye State. Riverside Methodist has applied for Level 1 status, which should be approved later this year.
At Glenville State, Pelfrey studied exercise science with minors in biology and chemistry. She was a standout member of the Lady Pioneer softball team (2018-2021) and was a Resident Assistant for two years. She was also a member of the Student Government Association, Student Athletic Advisory Committee, and Biochem Club. Pelfrey earned the prestigious Clarissa Williams Award in 2021.
After finishing her degree at Glenville State, Pelfrey went on to earn a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. In 2024, she was recognized as a member of the Pi Alpha National Honor Society for her significant academic achievement, leadership, research, service, and high standard of character and conduct.
Pelfrey also had an opportunity to travel to Monterrico, Guatemala in 2023 with her PA program and the International Medical Relief organization. She and the other volunteers provided medical care to over 600 people in a medically underserved area. They provided care for newborn infants up to geriatric patients. Pelfrey also volunteered with Remote Area Medical in 2022, where she assisted in providing care for underserved populations in Knoxville, Tennessee. She plans to travel overseas in the future to continue providing medical care to areas in need.
In her spare time, she enjoys CrossFit, training for half marathons, and spending time with her family and her dog. She also continues to volunteer at a local church and was a volunteer softball coach in 2025.
Pelfrey is a new homeowner and resides in Mount Gilead, Ohio.
Outstanding Young Alumnus – Donnie Lambert
The Outstanding Young Alumnus Award was presented to Donald “Donnie” Lambert, Class of 2018. This is one of two awards presented to recent graduates who have achieved early and remarkable success in their careers.
Lambert is currently serving as a Case Manager for Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) through Mountain CAP of West Virginia. He has also held several positions within The American Legion.
He earned a degree in history and political science from Glenville State. He was also active on campus with the Student Government Association, Alpha Xi Omega, Pi Gamma Mu, Greek Council, and the Student Veterans Association. He was also the Chief Student Marshal.
After graduating from GSC, he went on to earn a master’s degree in legal studies from West Virginia University.
Through his work with the SSVF program, Lambert works to provide veterans with housing through rental assistance, outreach, case management, and connection to VA benefits.
One week after graduating from Glenville State, Lambert was elected Commander of American Legion H.W. Daniels Post 29. This was his first leadership position within the organization and he oversaw over 460 veterans and the programs of the American Legion. At 23, he became District Commander, commanding 11 posts with over 1,000 members and held the Department Membership Vice Chairman position at the same time, working with 33 posts and over 3,000 members. It was during this that he was selected by the National Guard Bureau to be the Spirit of Service Award (2020) recipient for the National Guard Bureau by National Headquarters of The American Legion. After that, he served as a Department Assistant Sergeant at Arms, was a 2020 National American Legion College graduate, again served as the Department Membership Vice Chairman, and is currently a Department Vice Commander and is the chairman of the Department of West Virginia Americanism Committee. He is also a certified Veteran Service Officer with Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
In August 2024, Lambert received The American Legion Auxiliary’s Salute to Servicemembers Award, which was presented during their National Convention that was held in New Orleans. He dedicated the award to 鶹Ƶ Professor Emeritus Dr. Ed Wood.
Lambert also authored an article in the summer 2024 edition of Goldenseal titled, “History of the 40&8 Boxcar.” It details an abridged history of West Virginia’s “merci boxcar” that was a post-war gift from France and is now on display in Welch, West Virginia.
In addition to his work with The American Legion, Lambert is also involved with the 40&8 organization, AMVETS, and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States.
He and his wife Tiffanie reside in Valley Bend, West Virginia with their son, Elliott.
Community Achievement Award – Eric Peyatt
The Community Achievement Award was presented to Eric Peyatt, Class of 2019. This award is given to a graduate who has distinguished themselves in community service. Peyatt earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education with concentrations in Health Education and Physical Education, PreK through Adult from Glenville State. During his time at Glenville State, he developed a strong foundation in leadership, service, and community engagement that continues to guide his professional career today.
Following graduation, Peyatt briefly served as a teacher at Nicholas County High School in 2019 before pursuing an opportunity that would allow him to impact communities across the state. That same summer, he joined Mountaineer Food Bank as the Director of Operations. In this role, he helped guide the organization’s operational growth while supporting its mission to fight hunger across West Virginia.
In 2022, he was promoted to Chief Operations Officer and Vice President at Mountaineer Food Bank. In this leadership role, he oversees the organization’s day-to-day operational functions, leads staff across multiple departments, and develops operational goals and budgets. Peyatt also works on both short- and long-term strategic initiatives and serves as the primary liaison for the CEO on facility expansion and infrastructure projects as the organization continues to grow and expand its reach.
He remains closely connected to his alma mater and currently serves on the 鶹Ƶ Business Advisory Board. He has also previously served on the board of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Cooperative.
Peyatt resides in Summersville, West Virginia with his wife, Kaitlyn (Murphy) Peyatt, a 2018 graduate of Glenville State College, and their seven-year-old son, Coleman.
Posthumous Award – Dan Durbin
A Posthumous Award was presented to the family of Dan Durbin, Class of 1984. This award is presented to the family of a distinguished alumnus or alumna who has recently passed away.
Durbin was prompted to rest on May 8, 2025 following his diagnosis with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
His family said that God broke the mold when he created Durbin on October 27, 1962, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, to the late Alex A. Durbin and Sondra L. Durbin. Raised in Weston, West Virginia, alongside his sister, Debbie Blake, his early years were full of innocent mischief and deep connections with a tight-knit community that always knew when he was up to something, because he usually was.
Durbin was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning his bachelor’s degree in finance from Glenville State in 1984. After graduation, he began his career as a West Virginia Legislative Auditor in Charleston. In 1986, he moved into higher education as the Director of Budgets and Financial Operations at the West Virginia University Health Sciences Center in Morgantown, ultimately advancing through WVU’s financial and administrative ranks. He later served as Senior Associate Vice President at the University. In 2006, despite having three young kids at home, he studied every evening after work and completed his Master’s Degree in Public Administration, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. During his time at WVU, he played a significant leadership role in transforming the University, overseeing major projects related to student housing and academic facilities that reshaped the landscape of Morgantown.
In 2017, Durbin relocated his family to Louisville, Kentucky, where he became Associate Vice President for Health Affairs and Chief Financial Officer of the University of Louisville Health Sciences Center. The following year, he was named Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration at the University of Louisville. Durbin guided the institution through major challenges, including state budget cuts, the acquisition of KentuckyOne Health, the creation of UofL Health, and the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic-all while designing and implementing a new budget model that supported increased enrollment and financial stability. His accomplishments earned him recognition as one of Louisville’s Best in Finance by Louisville Business First.
He never let a dollar slip by unnoticed. Thanks to his signature frugality and talent for building meaningful, lasting partnerships, the University of Louisville saw a dramatic turnaround that will continue to benefit the institution for years. In recognition of his outstanding leadership and dedication to academic excellence, Durbin was awarded a Doctor of Public Service degree, with honors, from the University of Louisville in May of 2025.
He served on the Board of Directors of Leadership Louisville, acted as a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, taught at the University of Louisville’s College of Urban and Public Affairs, and worked as an evaluator for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. He also gave back to his alma mater by serving on the Board of Governors at 鶹Ƶ. In fact, following his passing, the GSU’s Board of Governors renamed their scholarship fund the “Dan Durbin Board of Governors Scholarship” in his honor.
He married the love of his life, Maria Santalucia, on September 17, 1988. They have four children. Their eldest, Jonathan Durbin, passed away as an infant in July of 1994. Annalie Cristina of Louisville, Kentucky, shared a special bond with him through their love for corgis and cars. Kaitlyn Elizabeth of Rome, Italy, and Andrew Joseph of Milan, Italy, lovingly guided him across Europe.
After his wife and kids, Corvettes, Camaros, and Mustangs were his true passions. He would restore and drive classic cars, study the U.S. Civil War, and attend automotive races. Nonetheless, he always had an infectious grin, unless it involved spending money, and found humor in any situation. He was able to connect with people from every walk of life and respected everyone. One of Durbin’s sayings was, “You never know what the person in front of you is going through, so you must treat everyone with respect.”
For more information about the Alumni Awards Banquet, contact (304) 462-6116.