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WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., December 12, 2024 – West Liberty University (WLU) is pleased to announce the donation of a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine to its Physician Assistant (PA) Program, generously provided by WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital’s CEO, Douglass Harrison, with donation efforts coordinated by Dr. Rajai Khoury. This contribution will greatly enhance the education and training of WLU’s PA students, equipping them with essential skills for today’s dynamic healthcare environment.

Ultrasound is a critical component of PA education, providing students with both diagnostic and procedural expertise. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) empowers clinicians to assess a variety of medical conditions in real-time—ranging from cardiac and abdominal concerns to musculoskeletal issues—while guiding invasive procedures such as joint injections and central line placements. By integrating ultrasound into the curriculum, WLU ensures its graduates are prepared to meet the growing demand for non-invasive, efficient diagnostic tools in diverse healthcare settings.

“Having an ultrasound machine available to WLU PA students throughout their training will allow us to integrate training longitudinally across the curriculum,” said Sarah Brammer, Director of the WLU PA Program. “We are extremely grateful to WVU Medicine and Dr. Khoury for their generous donation, and their investment in the training of future healthcare providers.”

The donation underscores WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital’s commitment to advancing medical education and strengthening the healthcare workforce in West Virginia and beyond.

For more information about the physician assistant program at WLU, please visit westliberty.edu/physician-assistant or call 304-336-5098.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., November 21, 2024 –  Todd Cover, President and CEO of Belmont Savings Bank, will serve as keynote speaker for West Liberty University’s (WLU) Fall Commencement Ceremony, taking place at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 14, in the Academic, Sports and Recreation Complex (ASRC).

Cover, a distinguished alum of West Liberty University, graduated in 1998 with bachelor’s degree in marketing and management.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., November 11, 2024 – The West Liberty University (WLU) Foundation welcomed three students from the Gary E. West College of Business to serve as interns during the academic year, providing real-world experience to undergraduates interested in the non-profit and development professions.

“Each year, the Foundation is pleased to welcome student interns who assist with the day-to-day activities of the Foundation while learning about various facets of the non-profit sector from accounting and development to marketing and event planning. Our interns also provide a valuable link to the student community and help to foster a culture of philanthropy on campus.” said Betsy Delk, WLU Foundation Executive Director.

The interns now assisting the WLU Foundation in its daily work include:

• Courtney Ellifritz is a Senior Marketing major who has returned for second year as a Foundation intern. On campus, she is a Resident Assistant, sister of Lambda Psi Sigma, and the vice president of Marketing Club. In her free time, Courtney enjoys self-defense training, reading, and spending time with friends and family. She hails from Keyser, WV.
• Isabella “Izzy” Harper is a Junior Business Major with a minor in Chemistry who is a member of the Psychology Club and Clay Club on campus. She also works part-time at Primanti Bros. A native of Shadyside, Ohio, Izzy enjoys spending time with family, traveling, shopping, as well as cooking and baking for her younger siblings.
• Dorde “George” Donovic is a Junior Accounting and Finance major from Montenegro who will provide support to the Foundation’s Finance Administrator, Ginni Findlay. George is a Resident Assistant and Peer Tutor and competes as a member of the WLU Track Team. He is also a member of the WesBanco Investment Club. In his free time, George enjoys playing basketball and hanging out with his friends.

Ellifritz, Harper and Donovic joined the WLU Foundation staff just in time to assist with Homecoming Weekend events. They also recently provided logistical support for the Foundation’s annual Scholarship Day which was held on October 30 in the College Union. During this day-long event, Foundation scholarship recipients are encouraged to write personal thank you notes to the donors who provide their scholarship support. Each fall, Foundation donors look forward to receiving photos, personal details and thank you notes from the students they assist. More than 125 students took part in this year’s event.

The WLU Foundation is pleased to manage over 160 scholarship funds. WLU Foundation Scholarships are established and funded by generous individuals and organizations who wish to provide opportunity to WLU students and help them achieve their educational goals.

The West Liberty University Foundation, Inc. was chartered into existence in 1964 and is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and led by its office staff. It maintains offices on both the West Liberty University campus and in downtown Wheeling.

The Foundation’s mission is to raise, invest, and steward private funds to strengthen West Liberty University and to increase opportunity for students of all backgrounds to pursue higher learning. For more information, please visit wlufoundation.org or call 304-336-5635.

West Liberty, WV – October 21, 2024 – This past weekend, West Liberty University (WLU) proudly hosted its President’s Recognition Banquet, honoring Wall of Honor recipients and The Impact of Philanthropy Awardees during the 2024 Homecoming festivities.

The Alumni Wall of Honor, the highest recognition bestowed by Alumni Affairs, welcomed four outstanding alumni: Jennifer Schwertfeger, Kenith C. Britt, Ph.D., Kenneth Habegger, and Hiroyuki Hamada. This honor is given to alumni who have excelled in their careers or made significant contributions through service.

The WLU Foundation presented the Impact of Philanthropy Awards to a select group of donors who contributed generously—$25,000 or more during fiscal year 2024—to advance priority projects for WLU. The 2024 awardees included David B. & Mary McKinley, Alex ’82 and Valerie ’87 Paris, LeRoy A. & Eve L. ’70 Wallin, Jaqueline Bradley, and The Richard and Leslie Gilliam Foundation. Chuck Jeswilkowski ’69 received the Impact of Philanthropy Leadership Award, honoring his lifelong engagement in philanthropic activities at WLU.

Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation, remarked, “Impact of Philanthropy Awards celebrate the transformative power of giving and the profound impact it has on our students, faculty, and the entire West Liberty University community. These awards honor the generosity and vision of our donors, whose contributions not only enhance educational opportunities but also inspire others to give.”

WLU President Dr. Tim Borchers added, “We celebrated those alumni who have been transformed during their time at West Liberty, and we acknowledge the transformational opportunities made possible by the generosity of our donors.”

The festivities included a morning of tailgating, welcoming back alumni, students, and friends to the hilltop. During halftime, the Wall of Honor recipients were honored on the 50-yard line, alongside the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen and the recognition of Alumni Royalty (former Kings and Queens).

Amanda Welsch, Director of Alumni Affairs, stated, “Homecoming is all about coming back to the Hilltop, reliving those great memories, and making new ones. It’s the perfect time to reconnect and celebrate what it means to be a Hilltopper!”

The West Liberty football team capped off the evening with a thrilling victory over West Virginia Wesleyan.

Founded in 1877, West Liberty University Alumni Affairs is dedicated to fostering a spirit of unity and fellowship among graduates while strengthening loyalty and support for the University. For more information, visit westliberty.edu/alumni or call 304-336-8888.

The WLU Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization established in 1964. Its mission is to raise, invest and steward private funds to strengthen West Liberty University and to increase opportunity for students of all backgrounds. For additional information, or to make a contribution, please visit wlufoundation.org or call 304-336-5635.

West Liberty, W. Va., October 17, 2024 – The West Liberty University (WLU) Foundation is proud to announce a generous gift of $1.7 million from Flip West and the West family to create the Gary E. West Aviation Center on campus and to permanently endow the Gary E. West Aviation Scholarship. This transformative donation will expand educational opportunities in aviation and ensure that aspiring pilots and aviation professionals have access to the financial support they need to succeed.

The Gary E. West Aviation Center will be located in the East Wing of Main Hall on WLU’s campus and serve as a dedicated hub for students enrolled in the WLU Aviation Program. The center will house a flight simulator, debriefing rooms, offices, a student lounge, and a classroom with technology to allow connection to remote flight instruction from Marshall University’s Bill Noe Flight School. The Aviation Center will enable WLU flight program students to receive flight instruction and log simulator flight hours without leaving campus.     

More than $600,000 of the West gift will be used to fund and permanently endow the Gary E. West Endowed Aviation Scholarship, which will provide financial support for students enrolled in the WLU Aviation Program. The first scholarships will be available to award for the 2025-26 academic year.

West Liberty University President Dr. Tim Borchers expressed gratitude for the donation:

“This remarkable gift from Flip West and the West family represents a tremendous investment in our students, our institution, and our region. We are deeply grateful for the continued support of the West family, and we are honored to name this new aviation center in memory of Gary E. West, a beloved alumnus and visionary supporter of West Liberty University.”

WLU Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Cathy Monteroso further explains how the gift will help bolster aviation training and regional economic development:

“This support strengthens our ability to provide students with cutting-edge training in aviation and helps fuel growth and innovation in our local and regional economies. The aviation industry is currently facing a significant pilot shortage, and through this program, we are empowering our students with the skills and opportunities they need to meet that demand.” 

Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation, acknowledged the West family’s longstanding support of the WLU Foundation and the University:

“Gary West’s success in business was matched by his generosity. Gary and Flip are the most generous benefactors in the history of West Liberty University. Their philanthropy has had a permanent and lasting impact on WLU. This special gift in support of the aviation program honors two of Gary’s passions – West Liberty University and flying.”

Gary E. West graduated from West Liberty State College in 1958 with a BSBA degree. Following his graduation, Gary worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for 13 years. In 1970, he purchased Valley Welding Supply Company in Wheeling, WV. Gary grew Valley Welding to 55 locations in 10 states – the largest, privately-held distributor of medical gas and welding supply products in the United States. In 1997, under Gary’s leadership as CEO, Valley National Gases, Inc. went public and the company continued to grow with 84 locations in 16 states.

Gary obtained his pilot’s license in 1982 and was passionate about flying his own aircraft and helicopter. He and Flip routinely flew between their homes in Florida and West Virginia with Gary at the helm. As both a pilot and businessperson, Gary was curious and fearless.

For more information about the West Liberty University Aviation Program, visit westliberty.edu/aviation.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.

The WLU Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization established in 1964. Its mission is to raise, invest and steward private funds to strengthen West Liberty University and to increase opportunity for students of all backgrounds. For additional information, or to make a contribution, please visit wlufoundation.org or call 304-336-5635.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., October 10, 2024 — The West Liberty University Foundation is pleased to announce that Barnes & Noble College Bookstores and their Topper Ready First Day® Complete Program has returned as the title sponsor for WLU Homecoming 2024.

The Homecoming Weekend festivities will begin with the President’s Recognition Banquet on Friday, October 18, 2024. Highlights of the banquet will be the induction of the Alumni Wall of Honor Class of 2024 and the presentation of the WLU Foundation Impact of Philanthropy Awards. On Saturday, October 19, WLU will host the Homecoming Parade, tailgating, and Football game. A complete schedule of events can be found at westliberty.edu/homecoming/

Betsy Delk, WLU Foundation Executive Director, said, “We are grateful to John Chaump and Barnes & Noble College Bookstores for their partnership and title sponsorship of our homecoming events which celebrate the WLU community and support the Foundation’s Annual Fund. “

“The President’s Recognition Banquet is a special time to honor our Impact of Philanthropy Award winners – a select group of donors who have given a generous amount of $25,000 or more during fiscal year 2024 to advance priority projects for WLU. We will also recognize the members of the John P. McCullough Society, Nathan Shotwell Society, and President’s Circle.

“The WLU Foundation wants to raise awareness about the impact of philanthropy on our student and campus community. The partnership we share with generous donors is critical to our ability to strengthen the university and help our students. We are grateful to our donors for the 2024 fiscal year for their role in this process.”  

2024 Impact of Philanthropy Honorees are:

Jacqueline Bradley

David B. and Mary McKinley

Alex ’82 & Valerie ’87 Paris

LeRoy A. & Eve L. ’70 Wallin

The Richard and Leslie Gilliam Foundation

Impact of Philanthropy – Leadership Award

Chuck Jeswilkowski ’69

Additional support for West Liberty Homecoming 2024 is provided by: Day and Night Heating & Cooling, WesBanco, Oglebay, S.R. Snodgrass A.C., and the Regional Economic Development Partnership.

The President’s Recognition Banquet is open to all alumni, friends, and the public. Single tickets ($85) and full table seating are available by contacting the WLU Foundation at 304.336.5635 or visiting its website at wlufoundation.org/awards.

The WLU and Barnes & Noble College Bookstores Topper Ready “First Day® Complete Program enables WLU students to have access to all required textbooks, lab manuals, access codes, and electronic book versions before the first day of class and results in significant savings for students. Additional information can be found at westliberty.edu/topper-ready/

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., September 30, 2024 – The West Liberty University (WLU) Foundation has announced that Bailee Beckett is the first-ever recipient of the Dr. Harald Wiesner Memorial Scholarship, which provides financial support for students in enrolled in the WLU Music Degree programs of Music Education, Music Performance, and Music Technology.

Beckett is a first-year Music Education major who plays the French horn and trumpet and is a member of the WLU Marching Band. A graduate of Shadyside High School, she is the daughter of Heather Becket and James Beckett. Beckett noted, “Being recognized for something that I’m so passionate about is such an honor. I am so grateful and humbled to be chosen for this scholarship! Thank you to the Wiesner family for this opportunity!”

Dr. Harald Wiesner was a professor of music at West Liberty University for 43 years. During that time, he encouraged, inspired, counseled, and befriended countless students. Following Dr. Wiesner’s death in March of 2023, a scholarship was established in his memory by his family, colleagues, and friends. Thanks to many memorial gifts, including a significant gift from Dr. Wiesner’s family, the fund has grown to over $150,000 ensuring its permanent endowment for the benefit of WLU students.

According to WLU Foundation Executive Director Betsy Delk, “We are so pleased to make the first award of this endowed scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year. The initial award will be $1000, but the income from the scholarship will grow over time so that the award will increase in future years. We are profoundly grateful for the generosity of Dr. Wiesner’s family and friends who have remembered him with their contributions to the scholarship fund.”

Dr. Matthew Harder, Chair of the WLU Department of Music, echoed Delk’s sentiments, “We are so honored to offer this Scholarship in memory of Dr. Wiesner. His legacy as a beloved teacher and musician will live on by providing assistance and encouragement to our music students.”

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., September 17, 2024 — For more than six decades, the Tri-State Tax Institute has offered professional development and continuing education geared toward tax professionals, accountants, attorneys, bankers and other professionals. This fall, the 66th annual Tri-State Tax Institute returns to The Highlands Event Center on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

In keeping with the Tri-State Tax Institute’s long tradition of excellence, this year’s program includes nationally known experts who will address current developments across the legal and financial landscape. The popular Linda Duessel, senior equity strategist at Federated Hermes and regular contributor to CNBC’s “Closing Bell” and other programs will present the Market Update. The Federal Tax Update will be provided by Robert Keebler, current chairman of the AICPA Advanced Estate Planning Conference and 2007 inductee into the Estate Planning Hall of Fame of National Association of Estate Planners & Councils. Other speakers and topics include:

• Wes Casto, P.E. – Oil and Gas Mineral Appraisals
• Alison Sacriponte, J.D. LL.M. – Ethics
• Bryce Meyer – Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Accounting and Estate Planning

Tri-State Tax Institute Chairperson, Steve Waters says, “We’re really looking forward to this year’s event!  We have a great agenda, with nationally recognized speakers presenting. Our event also provides a unique, face-to-face networking opportunity for professionals across different disciplines. We are grateful to West Liberty University for their partnership, as well as all our sponsors.”

Continuing Education credits are available for accountants, lawyers, insurance professionals and financial planning professionals. For registration prior to September 24, 2024 the fee is $185 for an individual or $170 for team members. (Participants are entitled to a team discount when three or more people from the same organization attend and register at the same time.)  Registration rates increase to $200 and $185 respectively on September 24.

Proceeds from the Tri-State Tax Institute support scholarships for WLU graduate students, including those in the MBA program. Dr. Sherri Theaker, Dean of Graduate Studies, has been instrumental in facilitating the program and securing continuing education credits with support from the West Liberty University Foundation staff.

The 66th Tri-State Tax Institute is sponsored by:  Main Street Bank, WesBanco, Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley, Herndon, Morton, Herndon, and Yaeger Law Offices, The Preferred Legacy National Trust Bank, Commonwealth Financial Services, Charles Schwab, and Riverbridge Wealth Management.

The full agenda and registration information are available at westliberty.edu/tristatetax

West Liberty, W. Va., August 13, 2024 – The West Liberty University Foundation is proud to announce the establishment and permanent endowment of the Amy Northwood Hamilton Nursing Scholarship, which will provide financial support to students enrolled in the West Liberty University (WLU) BA/BS to BSN program. The scholarship was endowed through a generous donation from the Honorable David B. McKinley and Mary McKinley, in memory of Mr. McKinley’s grandmother, Amy Northwood Hamilton.

Amy Northwood Hamilton served as the Resident Director in Shaw Hall at West Liberty State College (WLSC) for over 10 years during the administration of Dr. Paul N. Elbin. Amy loved her work at West Liberty and particularly enjoyed connecting with students. Following her mandatory retirement from WLSC at the age of 65, Amy went on to serve as a dormitory mother at both Bethany and Wheeling Colleges.

In addition to honoring the memory of Amy Northwood Hamilton and her service to WLSC, the McKinleys desire to assist students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Mary McKinley herself had a long career in the field, having served as a  critical care nurse in the Ohio Valley for over forty-five years. She obtained her nursing diploma from Ohio Valley General Hospital, her bachelor’s degree from Wheeling College and her Master of Science in Nursing from West Virginia University.

David B. McKinley explained the impetus for endowing the scholarship, stating “Nurses are an indispensable component of the healthcare system in America but a shortage exists. Hopefully, this scholarship will help make transitioning into the BSN program less challenging. Secondly, it recognizes my grandmother’s passion for West Liberty University and its mission.” McKinley served as the U.S. Representative for West Virginia’s 1^st Congressional district from 2011-2023 and was a member of the WV House of Delegates from 1980-1994. He is the founder of the Wheeling-based architecture and engineering firm, McKinley & Associates (now known as McKinley Architecture and Engineering).

Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the West Liberty University Foundation, expressed gratitude for this significant contribution, stating, “We are deeply thankful to David and Mary McKinley for their visionary support. This endowed scholarship will be an important resource for students in the BS/BA to BSN program who, after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in another field, decide to pursue a degree in nursing. This scholarship will support our students and help meet the critical need for nurses in our region.”

“This scholarship is especially beneficial to adult learners who may need to temporarily leave the workforce to earn their BSN degree,” adds WLU Assistant Professor of Nursing and Program Chair Barbara Kulpa. “The support this scholarship provides will ease financial pressures and allow students to focus on their education,” she explains.

West Liberty University’s BA/BS to BSN Nursing Program is an accelerated BSN program for those who already have a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree and want to become a nurse. This program was designed for students who have met prerequisite courses and want to devote the next year and a half to full-time, intense study.

Contributions to the Amy Northwood Hamilton Endowed Nursing Scholarship can be made online at wlufoundation.org, by mail at WLU Foundation, 208 University Drive, CUB 126, West Liberty WV 26047 or by phone at 304-336-5635.

West Liberty, W. Va., July 24, 2024 – The West Liberty University Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors. The newly appointed members – Dr. Kenith Britt, PhD and Dr. Brian Huggins, DO – bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to supporting the mission and strategic goals of West Liberty University.

Britt, a 2002 graduate of WLU, serves as the Chief Operating Officer and Chancellor of Marian University Indianapolis. In this role, Dr. Britt oversees academics, athletics, mission, enrollment, student life, and strategic growth initiatives across three campus locations. Under his leadership, the university has seen significant advancements in enrollment and marketing communications, contributing to its fundraising success of more than $50 million annually. Britt is an accomplished leader in the field of education with a rich background in advancing institutions through strategic growth and innovation.

Previously, Dr. Britt served as Marian’s SVP for Strategic Growth & Innovation, where he orchestrated the successful merger of marketing and enrollment departments, leading to record university enrollments. As the founding dean of the Fred S. Klipsch Educators College, he dramatically increased enrollment and raised $115 million to support the college’s vision.

Britt earned his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from The Catholic University of America, an M.A. in Leadership Studies from Marshall University, and a B.A. in Elementary Education with a Minor in Mathematics from West Liberty University. He is the proud husband to Jessica Britt, a 2003 graduate of WLU, and father to four beautiful daughters.

An esteemed presenter and community leader, Dr. Britt has contributed to numerous conferences and publications on educational leadership and teacher preparation. His board appointments and memberships reflect his commitment to community service and educational excellence. His impact in Indianapolis led to his selection of the Indy’s Best and Brightest Award in 2017.

Huggins, a 2006 graduate of WLU, is the Health Officer of the Monongalia County Health Department where he is responsible for program objectives and standards that promote and support population health in Monongalia County and the surrounding counties. In addition, Huggins serves as the Chief of Aerospace Medicine for the United States Air Force Reserves, 910 Medical Squadron, Youngstown Air Reserve Station. He formerly served as Assistant Professor and Occupational Medicine Physician at the West Virginia University School of Public Health.

Huggins earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and a BS in Biology and a Minor in Theatre from West Liberty University. He resides in Morgantown, WV with his wife Kat Timms.

“We are thrilled to welcome these distinguished individuals to our Board of Directors,” said Dr. Dan Joseph, Chairperson of the West Liberty University Foundation. “Their diverse expertise and passion for education will be invaluable as we continue to support the university’s mission and enhance the educational opportunities for our students.”

Britt and Huggins join a board that includes 21 other members, led by Chairman Daniel I. Joseph ’75, Wheeling, W.Va. and including: Jeremy West ’99 (Vice Chair), Wheeling, W.Va.; David Croft ‘89 (Treasurer), Wheeling, W.Va.; Anissa Anderson ‘94 (Secretary), New Martinsville, W.Va.; Marty Adams ’75, Naples, Fla.; Jason Blair ‘95, Mount Pleasant, S.C.; John Bonassi ’69, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Clyde Campbell ’53, Wheeling, W.Va.; Christine Carder ’72, Wheeling, W.Va.; Todd Cover ’98, Wheeling, W.Va.; John Dolan ’78, Indiana, Pa.; Linda Edwards ’64, Wellsburg, W.Va.; James Frum ’61, Wheeling, W.Va.; Diane Gongaware ’78, Fairfax, Va.; John McCullough, Triadelphia, W.Va.; Donald Nickerson ’82, Wheeling, W.Va.; E. Alex Paris III ’82, Avella, Pa.; Denise Penz ’97,Summerville, SC; Clifton Spinner ’87, Columbus, Ohio; Samuel Stone, Morgantown, W.Va.; Weaver ’85, Wheeling, W.Va.

The West Liberty University Foundation supports the University through the cultivation, investment, and stewardship of private funds. For more information, please contact Executive Director Betsy Delk at betsy.delk@westliberty.edu or 304-336-8847.