Skip Navigation

Sign In or Register

West-virginia-encyclopedia-text

SharePrint University of Hard Knocks

The University of Hard Knocks is an honorary society conceived by West Virginia newspaper editor Jim Comstock in 1947. The society serves in a lighthearted way to recognize people who succeed in life without the benefit of a college degree. The University of Hard Knocks has its own seal, which includes a motto in Latin that translates to ‘‘Blood, Sweat and Tears.’’ The official colors are black and blue.

Those who wish to become members of the University of Hard Knocks are either nominated by an alumnus or present their credentials to the president. A membership committee then decides who will be accepted. There is a one-time charge, and in Comstock’s day the annual membership fee included a subscription to his West Virginia Hillbilly newspaper, where the success stories of the new graduates were printed. New members share their stories with alumni during the annual commencement weekend that takes place about the first of June on the campus of Alderson-Broaddus University in Philippi.

This Article was written by Amy Donaldson Arnold

Last Revised on August 30, 2023


Cite This Article

Arnold, Amy Donaldson "University of Hard Knocks." e-WV: The West Virginia Encyclopedia. 30 August 2023. Web. 28 March 2024.

Comments?

There aren't any comments for this article yet.

West Virginia Humanities Council | 1310 Kanawha Blvd E | Charleston, WV 25301 Ph. 304-346-8500 | © 2024 All Rights Reserved

About e-WV | Our Sponsors | Help & Support | Contact Us The essential guide to the Mountain State can be yours today! Click here to order.