The 'Graduate'

Alice Belmont wrapped up her long career with WVU Medicine on Feb. 17 but her friends didn't let her leave without a salute.

Belmont, who began her career in 1969 as a radiology technologist, was thrown a surprise "graduation" party. A special projects coordinator at the WVU Spine Center, Belmond did not like to use the phrase "retirement" when she spoke of her life’s next phase. In her new role, Belmont will be a stay-at-home grandmother, a first for a woman who did not have the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mother.

She was with the WVU Department of Radiology for 41 years, served in a variety of roles and touched the lives of thousands of WVU Medicine patients and students.

According to a colleague, she is most proud of her role with the development of the Breast Care Center, which opened in 1996, and the services offered to the women of West Virginia.

At her party, Belmont was presented with a diploma by Albert L. Wright, Jr., West Virginia University Health System President and CEO and received gifts, cards and a cake.