Eastern University continued its centennial celebration with a special event held in conjunction with the West Virginia Baptist Convention’s Annual Meeting. Palmer Theological Seminary maintains a vital presence through the West Virginia program at the Parchment Valley Conference Center. ​This unique partnership with the West Virginia Baptist Convention, established in 1992, has delivered our Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree for over 25 years. The program, led by alumnus and Program Director Rev. Dr. R. ​Allan Copenhaver, offers a flexible hybrid model, blending online work with a two-and-a-half-day residency, allowing individuals to enhance their ministry skills while remaining close to home. ​This initiative has been instrumental in bringing quality theological education to the state, forming a strong community of people who "do life and ministry together.” ​In celebration of Palmer's rich history and ongoing work, the seminary organized the West Virginia Centennial Banquet on October 17th, 2025, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Charleston, WV.

Typically, there is a special luncheon for alumni, students, and friends of the seminary. However, in honor of this centennial year, the event was transformed into a special dinner, which highlighted the history of the WV Program. There were three special honorees. Ruth McFarland, who served Palmer for many years, was recognized for her instrumental work in the early years of the WV program. Lloyd Hamblin was honored for both his years as Executive Minister of the WVBC as well as his leadership of the Bowen Charitable Trust. This trust has provided millions of dollars for seminary students and the largest recipient has been Eastern University. Also honored was Lawrence “Hoppy” Hoptry (posthumously) who served as the director of the WV Baptist Education Society for several decades.

Professor Emeritus George Hancock-Stefan received the Robert E. Matherly Award of Excellence. This award is presented annually to those who have served the WV Program with distinction. Hancock-Stefan has been teaching in WV for over 20 years and continues to teach there in retirement. The evening also includes remarks from President Ron Matthews and Dean Kimberlee Johnson.