WVU School of Medicine Grad Follows in Family Footsteps

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – WVU School of Medicine graduate Morgan Bush, MD followed in her father and brother’s footsteps as she walked across the stage to receive her diploma as part of West Virginia University’s first in-person commencement ceremonies since December 2019, joining the nearly 4,500 graduates who participated in four ceremonies the weekend of May 15-16 at Mylan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown.

Making it even more special, father Stephen Bush, MD MBA and brother Stephen Bush II, MD presented her with her graduation stole as part of the ceremony.   Dr. Bush is an assistant professor and chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at WVU’s School of Medicine Charleston Campus, and brother Stephen II is a clinical assistant professor and in gynecologic oncology practice in Charleston.

Because of health and safety guidelines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, graduates gathered with family and friends at the stadium instead of the Coliseum for the first time since 2000.

“My hope is that this crisis leaves us with a profound understanding of the interconnectedness that bridges each life with every other,” WVU President Gordon Gee told the gathering. “And my hope for today’s graduates is that there is an awareness that, even in times of crises and isolation, we are all in this together.”

Vice President and Executive Dean of Health Sciences Clay Marsh thanked students for the compromises made to help keep their communities and beyond safe during the pandemic.

“You collaborated on research with our experts. Volunteered at testing sites and vaccination clinics. And met our most vulnerable populations, like nursing home residents, where they were,” Marsh said. “I know it hasn’t been easy, but your willingness to push forward shows compassion, resolve and selflessness.”

Gov. Jim Justice shared an encouraging video message commending the graduates on their ability to adapt and face the challenges of a new journey.

And Gee urged them to embrace the journey, exploring the world as it reopens and using this period of social distancing as a reminder of how precious human connections are.