Purple Star

Mountwest Community & Technical College in West Virginia has been designated a Purple Star facility, an honor recognizing institutions that provide strong support to military-connected students and their families. The recognition highlights the college's efforts to assist veterans and service members in pursuing education. Purple Star designations are awarded to schools that meet established standards for veteran support services.

A photograph circulating among nature enthusiasts shows a raggedy Common Blue butterfly resting on an equally worn purple star thistle. Shared as part of the weekly Wildlife Wednesday tradition, the image is drawing warm reactions for its honesty, celebrating weathered wild beauty rather than a perfect specimen, and prompting others to share their own butterfly and wildflower photos.