WVU President Michael T. Benson, left, greets Craig Pyles, superintendent of Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and a two-time WVU graduate, with Travis Mollohan, right, WVU associate vice president for government relations and collaboration, aboard a park ferry on Wednesday. Benson visited Parkersburg and spoke to students, alumni and donors Tuesday night at the Blennerhassett Hotel as part of his inaugural “Welcome Home Tour” through 18 counties. (Photo provided by Brian Persinger)

West Virginia University President Michael T. Benson, a professor of history, talks with Scott Cain, a tour guide at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, during a visit on Wednesday. Benson spoke to students, alumni and donors Tuesday night at the Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg as part of his inaugural “Welcome Home Tour” through 18 counties. (Photo provided by Brian Persinger)

West Virginia University President Michael T. Benson applauds following a dulcimer performance from Scott Cain, a tour guide at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. (Photo provided by Brian Persinger)

New WVU President Michael T. Benson, who is also a history professor, said he has especially enjoyed the historical site stops — like Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park Wednesday — on his inaugural “Welcome Home Tour” through 18 counties. (Photo provided by Brian Persinger)