GLENVILLE -- A new partnership between Glenville State College and the West Virginia Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety will offer training for criminal justice students and professionals.

The old Kenneys Shoe Factory in Glenville has a new look, a new name, and a brand new purpose. A ribbon cutting for the Morris Criminal Justice Training Center was held today, celebrating efficiency and a strong partnership within Gilmer County.

The Morris Criminal Justice Training Center is a combined training facility for Glenville State College students and trainees for the Regional Jail Authority, the Division of Juvenile Services, and the Division of Corrections.

The idea for a joint training ground came about three years ago but it wasn't until last year that I.L. Morris' gift made the dream a reality.

"It was just a natural fit," said Morris, who moved to Gilmer County 47 years ago. "It's going to help our enrollment considerably, and we can build around this right here. The Governor wants partners. We are a partner."

Governor Joe Manchin says the partnership between these agencies is an example of the efficiency he would like to see within the state.

"All in all, at the end of the day, the state saves about $60,000 in the budgets that we have," said Manchin, who said he was excited that it was Glenville State College who took the initiative to create such a partnership. "One budget here, one budget here, one - now under one roof."

The center staged a mock cell evacuation and K-9 demonstrations to show what happens in some of its courses.

"The biggest benefit is going to be the ability to share resources, facilities, and personnel," said Ronald Casto, Deputy Chief of Operations for the West Virginia Regional Jail Authority.

State education officials say this is a one-of-a-kind partnership in West Virginia.

"This is a great opportunity for the institution, the Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security, and Corrections to come together and enhance economic development and learning for our students," explained Chancellor Brian Noland of the West Virginia Higher Education Commission.

Another generous donation was made by Marge Burke in honor of her husband Billy Burke, who helped build regional jails and helped start the criminal justice concentration at Glenville State College.

"I'm sure it will increase our enrollment," said Burke, who is on the GSC Board of Governors, "And hopefully, some of the people who come to train here will have children and grandchildren that will want to come to Glenville State College when they find out what a safe, wonderful, friendly place it is."