100 Years of Alpha Psi Omega: Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Paul Opp at Fairmont State University

Photo by Dalton Stanley

Fairmont State University’s chapter of Alpha Psi Omega (APO), the collegiate dramatics honorary fraternity, celebrated the life and birthday of Dr. Paul Opp on Oct. 2. Opp was a Fairmont State College Professor of Speech and one of the original founders of APO. The current Alpha Psi Omega members planned this celebration of life on Dr. Paul’s birthday and also commemorated the 100-year anniversary of APO’s founding by Dr. Opp.  

Julia Kirby, Alpha Psi Omega member and Alpha Cast President, spoke at the celebration and said, “Paul Opp was more than an educator, he was a community builder who understood that theater is not just about the stage, but about character, creativity, and service to others.”  

This event was held at Fairmont’s Woodlawn Cemetery, where Dr. Paul Opp and his wife are buried. Troy Snyder, who is a Fairmont State Professor of Theater, aided APO students in planning this event. He, along with Woodlawn Cemetery Board of Governors President, Dr. Ray Alvarez, came up with the idea of having the ceremony at Dr. Opp’s gravesite. Many retired faculty members, University administrators, and current and former students were in attendance. 

As part of the Alpha Psi Omega centennial celebration, the organization will present Peter and the Starcatcher, with performances scheduled for October 31–November 2 and November 6–8. Following the 2:00 p.m. matinee on November 2, a special reception will be held to commemorate APO’s 100th anniversary. This event is open to all who wish to celebrate the organization's rich legacy. A private banquet will follow at Muriale’s Italian Kitchen, honoring APO members, former community arts students, faculty and staff, and theater alumni. 

To purchase tickets to this event, and other showings of Peter and the Starcatcher, visit here: https://www.fairmontstate.edu/cola/community-arts/box-office.aspx.