GLENVILLE, WV – Glenville State University graduate and Dean of Student Success and Retention Trae Sprague has been named to the 2022 class of Generation Next: 40 Under 40 honorees.

Sprague and the other honorees were recognized at a ceremony on June 16.

“I feel very fortunate but also humbled to be recognized with this award, as I realize how lucky I have been to have great colleagues and mentors surrounding me along the way. I would not be here without the team,” Sprague said.

“We are extremely proud of Trae for this recognition. He is in a key role for us because student retention is an important element, and we want only the best for the students who choose Glenville State as their home. As a former student and Glenville graduate, he understands our students better and it provides tremendous insight in developing programs and working with students to make Glenville State the best it can be for our family of students,” said Glenville State University President, Dr. Mark A. Manchin.

As the Dean of Student Success and Retention, Sprague says a surprisingly favorite part of his duties has been analyzing the data of retention. “I enjoy the data analytics. Taking national and regional trends and comparing it to what we are finding here at GSU. By doing this, I am gaining a new perspective on the next generation of students and increasing my understanding of their barriers and needs,” he said.

Originally from Parkersburg, West Virginia, Sprague graduated from Glenville State with a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree in Physical Education in 2012. In August of that year, he joined the Office of Admissions as an Admissions Counselor. Sprague then became the Supervisor of Student Life and Intramural Sports within the Office of Student Life in 2016 before shifting to the Director of Residence Life in August 2019. He received his Master of Science in Education from Fort Hays State University in 2019 and was selected as the 2020 Glenville State University Staff Employee of the Year.

During his time at Glenville State as a student, Sprague was a member of the Men’s Golf Team, a member of the inaugural Baseball Club, and served as a Resident Assistant. After he graduated, he became the head coach of the Men’s Golf Team from 2012 – 2015.

Sprague also received GSU’s prestigious Montrose Award in 2012. The Frank Montrose Award was established in 1952 and is presented during Homecoming to a graduate of the preceding class who was not only an outstanding athlete but also a scholar, a leader, and a person of high moral character.

“I have been inspired by countless people in my life including teachers, coaches, family, friends, co-workers, supervisors, etc. All of the people who have challenged my thinking and beliefs have led me to who I am today. I recognize that we all are not as fortunate to have good mentors and opportunities in our lives, so I am motivated to help open doors and keep the door open for others,” Sprague added.

The 40 Under 40 recognition was created 17 years ago to celebrate the state’s outstanding professionals who make a difference on the job and in their communities. The recognition is presented by The State Journal.