Long-Time Community Leader Rosalyn Queen Earns Honorary Degree from Glenville State University

Glenville State University President Dr. Mark A. Manchin awarded an honorary Bachelor of Humanities degree to Rosalyn Burnett Queen during a gathering at the President’s house on the campus of GSU.

The event took place, yesterday, Wednesday, April 16. Queen was joined by family and friends at the ceremony and dinner hosted in Queen’s honor in the heart of Glenville State’s campus.

Queen was recognized for her unwavering dedication to the humanities, extensive volunteerism, and insightful weekly news blog, to earn the honor. Queen’s blog, The Grapevine, is a weekly feature on Connect-Bridgeport.

Queen has significantly enriched the cultural and intellectual fabric of the Harrison County community through her various contributions. She serves as a member of the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce, former Executive Director of the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival, and served on the Scholarship Committee for the National Italian American Foundation among many other boards. Beyond her professional endeavors, Queen has dedicated countless hours to volunteerism, especially for the Women of Distinction Program and the Young Women’s Progressive Association.

In addition to her advocacy and volunteer work, she engages the public with her widely read “The Grapevine” blog that offers thoughtful perspectives on current events and societal issues. She has become a trusted voice in the community, fostering informed dialogue and reflection.

“I am honored to recognize Rosalyn Burnett Queen, whose life’s work has made a profound impact on society,” said Manchin. “Her unwavering commitment to the humanities and community service exemplifies the values we strive to instill in our students here at Glenville State University.”

Rosalyn Queen was joined by son Michael Queen, daughter Leslie Queen Pruitt and husband Dixon; grandson Ben Queen, wife Meredith, and great grandson Arthur Queen; her sister Joan Smith, and several friends. Among those attending were Alexis and Francis Scott, Ruby Oldaker, Jennifer Morton and her daughter Ashely, and others.

Several Glenville State University members were also on hand, including Provost Dr. Mari Clements and Executive Vice President Rita Helmick.

Editor’s Note: Top photo shows Rosalyn Queen and Glenville State President Dr. Mark Manchine, while Queen is shown with son Mike Queen and daughter Leslie Queen Pruitt as she is receiving her honorary degree in the second image. Photo below shows Queen with her grandson Ben, his wife Meredith, and great grandson Arthur. Cover photo shows Queen, Manchin, and Glenville State Officials.