Lauren Boczek, team president and managing partner for the Indianapolis Capitols, introduces us to her hometown.
WRITTEN BY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAUREN BOCZEK
I was born and raised in Morgantown, graduating from both Morgantown High School and West Virginia University—a true “townie.” I loved West Virginia so much I could never really see myself living away from home, despite being presented various opportunities outside of the state over the years. But then came what could potentially be a life-changing position that was too good to pass up, and after much thought, I left the state I had called home for nearly four decades at the end of 2025.
Childhood Reflections
Morgantown was such a fun place to grow up. While it has changed quite drastically since my childhood, it still has a small-town feel with so much to offer. Whether you’re looking to hike, hang at the lake, attend a sporting event, or grab dinner at a fun, locally owned spot, there truly is something for everyone in the University City.
Out and About
When I’m back in Morgantown, my favorite places to visit are wherever my friends and family are. We usually enjoy spending quality time together at home, but when we do venture out, it’s to Kegler’s Sports Bar or Stefano’s. There’s no Kegler’s Gold Sauce to be found in Indianapolis, and I’ve yet to have a meal that holds a candle to anything on the Stefano’s menu. Chef’s kiss!
I also can’t miss a visit to Gene’s Beer Garden to see Al and Lucy and grab a famous chili dog. I have so many great memories at this neighborhood hangout before and after MHS games, on Christmas Eve, and on rainy summer days throughout the years.
The Perfect Day?
A WVU Football game day, hands down. The first game of the season is always the most special—the weather is usually perfect, the streets and sidewalks are full of fans clad in the old gold and blue for the first time in months, and John Denver can be heard at just about every tailgate. When the sun is gold, the sky is blue, and the leaves are just starting to change color, there’s no better place to be than Morgantown, West Virginia.
Country Roads, Take Me Home
Morgantown and West Virginia will always hold special places in my heart. It is where I grew into the person I am today, through good times and bad. It’s where I had my first job and graduated from college. It remains home to my closest friends and much of my family. I am so proud to be a Mountaineer and love being called “a West Virginia girl” in my new city. No matter where my travels take me, you can bet I’m going to find a band willing to play “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and belt it out from start to finish.
READ MORE STORIES FROM OUR FALL 2026 ISSUE
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