Category: News

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University Foundation is honored to announce the creation of the Megan Dart Endowed Volleyball Scholarship, established in loving memory of Megan Maureen Dart by her husband Michael and daughters Bella and Evie.

Megan, who passed away on July 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with neuroendocrine cancer, devoted her life to caring for others as a cardiac sonographer. A graduate of Lawrence Central High School and Ball State University, Megan was known for her kindness, compassion, and commitment to service. Beyond her healthcare career, Megan was a dedicated volleyball supporter and, most of all, a proud mother who found joy in cheering for her daughters, Bella and Evie. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and unwavering support made her a beloved “team mom” and role model in every community she touched.

The endowed scholarship will support student-athletes participating in women’s intercollegiate volleyball at West Liberty University. Preference will be given to students majoring in healthcare-related fields, including Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Exercise Physiology, Biology, Pre-Medicine, and Speech Pathology, reflecting Megan’s lifelong dedication to helping others.

To further honor Megan’s legacy, a commemorative plaque in her memory will be installed in the ASRC, where it will serve as a reminder of her spirit, generosity, and impact on the Hilltopper community.

The inaugural scholarship recipient, Jessa Anderson, was announced during the West Liberty University WESPY’s, the university’s annual awards ceremony honoring outstanding Hilltopper student-athletes. Anderson, a volleyball standout from Magnolia High School, will join the Hilltoppers this fall and will major in Biology, Pre-Dental.

“Megan exemplified kindness, resilience, and a deep love for her family,” said Michael Dart, who attended the WESPY’s and spoke about his late wife. “Establishing this scholarship ensures her legacy continues to uplift young women pursuing both their academic and athletic dreams.”

“We are profoundly grateful to the Dart family and are honored that they chose to remember Megan in a way that supports student-athletes at West Liberty,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University and the WLU Foundation have announced that the 2026 Topper Day of Giving will take place on Wednesday, March 25. The 24-hour online fundraising event brings together alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university to support scholarships, academic programs, athletics, and student experiences across campus.

The Health Plan will once again serve as the title sponsor for the annual giving day, continuing its longstanding commitment to higher education and student success in the Ohio Valley.

“Topper Day of Giving has become one of the Foundation’s most impactful fundraising initiatives each year,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation. “Support from alumni, faculty, and the community helps expand scholarship opportunities for students and provides critical funding for programs across campus. We are grateful to The Health Plan for continuing their partnership as our title sponsor.”

Jeff Knight, President and CEO of The Health Plan, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting educational opportunities in the region.

“As a major employer in the Ohio Valley, The Health Plan recognizes the important role West Liberty University plays in preparing students for successful careers,” Knight said. “We are proud to support Topper Day of Giving and invest in the continued success of WLU students.”

During the 24-hour giving event, donors will have the opportunity to support the WLU Foundation Annual Fund or designate their gifts to the academic or athletic programs that matter most to them. Many gifts will be eligible for matching opportunities and special challenges that help increase the impact of each contribution.

Additional sponsorship support for the 2026 Topper Day of Giving includes Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, CMTA, Alex and Valerie Paris, Apex Aesthetics, Liberty Distributors, Gellner Law Offices, and Wheeling Volkswagen Subaru.

Topper Day of Giving has grown significantly in recent years through strong participation from the campus community and alumni network. Students, faculty, and supporters share stories and encourage participation through social media, emails, and personal outreach in the days leading up to the event.

For more information or to make a gift on March 25, visit wlufoundation.org/dayofgiving or call 304-336-5635.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University Foundation proudly announces the permanent endowment of the Bravo Zulu Veterans Scholarship, a fund created to honor and support U.S. military veterans and their families as they pursue higher education at West Liberty University.

Established by Karl and Denise Penz, both proud U.S. Navy veterans, the Bravo Zulu Veterans Scholarship reflects their deep gratitude for the opportunities and discipline their military service provided. The phrase “Bravo Zulu” is a naval signal meaning “Well Done,” symbolizing the Penz family’s commitment to recognizing and uplifting those who have served.

Karl Penz served in the Navy for over a decade before dedicating his time to family life. Denise Penz, a 1997 graduate of West Liberty State College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Accounting), has built a distinguished career in banking and financial services. Today, she serves as CEO and Vice-Chairman of The Preferred Legacy Trust Company and is honored on West Liberty University’s Alumni Wall of Honor for her professional achievements and community leadership. Denise is a member of the WLU Foundation Board of Directors.

“As veterans, we both understand that service shapes not only the one who wears the uniform, but the family that supports them. This scholarship is our commitment to turning that service and support into opportunity for veterans and their families,” said Denise Penz.

The Bravo Zulu Veterans Scholarship provides financial assistance to veterans, active-duty service members, and the children of veterans who are enrolled full-time at West Liberty University. Scholarships may be renewed for up to four years and can be applied toward tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, and travel to academic conferences. Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Following a vesting period, the scholarship will be available for award for the 2027-2028 Academic Year.

“This endowment ensures that the Bravo Zulu Veterans Scholarship will continue to support those who have served our country for generations to come,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to Karl and Denise Penz for their vision and generosity.”

Recipients will be chosen by the Director of Financial Aid and the Veterans GI Bill Certifying Official based on eligibility criteria, including honorable military service and academic performance.

For more information about the Bravo Zulu Veterans Scholarship or to contribute to the fund, please visit West Liberty University Foundation’s website at wlufoundation.org.

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. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., September 16, 2025 — For over six decades, the Tri-State Tax Institute has provided professional development and continuing education specifically designed for tax professionals, accountants, attorneys, bankers, and other financial experts.

This fall, the 67th annual Tri-State Tax Institute returns to The Highlands Event Center on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

In keeping with the Institute’s long tradition of excellence, this year’s program features nationally recognized speakers and timely topics addressing the latest developments in tax, law, and financial planning. Highlights include:

• Federal Tax Update – presented by Ernst & Young
• Business Exit Planning – presented by Capital Group
• Market Overview – presented by Tracey Manzi
• The Duty to Inform, The Benefits of Delaware Trust Law, and Silent Trusts – presented by Richard W. Nenno
• Ethics – presented by Melinda Garvin

Tri-State Tax Institute Chairperson, Steve Waters, notes:

“This year’s event continues our tradition of bringing together outstanding experts to share insights on the most pressing issues in our field. Beyond the educational content, the Institute provides a valuable opportunity for networking and professional connections across disciplines. We’re grateful to West Liberty University, the WLU Foundation, and our sponsors for their ongoing support.”

Continuing Education credits are available for accountants, lawyers, insurance professionals, financial planning professionals, and tax professionals. New for this year, IRS continuing education credits will be available for Enrolled Agents.

Registration before September 24, 2025, is $185 for an individual or $170 for team members. (Participants receive a team discount when three or more people from the same organization register together.) Registration rates increase to $200 and $185, respectively, after September 24.

Proceeds from the Tri-State Tax Institute support scholarships for West Liberty University students majoring in Accounting or Financial Planning.

The 67th Tri-State Tax Institute is sponsored by: Main Street Bank; WesBanco; Herndon, Morton, Herndon & Yaeger Law Offices; Riverbridge Wealth Management of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., and Commonwealth Financial Services.

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

The stated mission of the West Liberty University Foundation, as adopted by the Board of Directors, is as follows: “The West Liberty University Foundation raises, invests, and stewards private funds to strengthen West Liberty University and to increase opportunity for students of all backgrounds to pursue higher learning.”

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.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., August 7, 2025 — West Liberty University (WLU) is proud to announce the completion of a new accessible viewing platform at Kovalick Field, enhancing the game-day experience for fans with mobility challenges. The project was made possible through a grant from the Rosemary Front Charitable Trust and an in-kind donation of innovative decking material from CONSOL Innovations, a subsidiary of Core Natural Resources.

The new platform allows individuals with disabilities to enjoy Hilltopper baseball with greater ease and comfort. In addition to increasing accessibility, the project serves as a trial site for CONSOL Innovations’ new composite decking product, which is being developed to incorporate coal waste in its formulation — a promising step forward in sustainable materials development.

“West Liberty University is happy to partner with CONSOL Innovations and benefit from their forward-thinking research and development,” said Dr. Tim Borchers, WLU President. “This partnership highlights the positive outcomes that can result when local organizations, industry leaders, and higher education institutions work together.”

This collaborative effort underscores WLU’s ongoing commitment to improving campus facilities and embracing innovation that benefits both the university community and the region.

About West Liberty University

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.

About CONSOL Innovations

CONSOL Innovations LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Core Natural Resources, Inc., is dedicated to creating long-term value through sustainable innovations in the carbon products and materials and carbon management markets. With a mission to “Reimagine Carbon for a Sustainable Future,” CONSOL Innovations is founded on the belief that our abundant carbon resources, which have fueled human progress since the Industrial Revolution, can also serve as an important building block for meeting the critical and evolving needs of society going forward. The company, with primary operations in Triadelphia, WV, is focused on providing disruptive, carbon-based solutions for growing industries including aerospace, building products, and energy storage. Visit Consol Innovations for more information.

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., August 4, 2025 – West Liberty University and the West Liberty University Foundation are proud to announce the receipt of a grant from the Enterprise Mobility Foundation™. This funding will support the University’s Student Success Center, which provides academic support and career development services for WLU students.

The Enterprise Mobility Foundation grant aligns with WLU’s commitment to educational excellence and student success, providing valuable resources to strengthen its mission in the region.

“We are grateful for the support of the Enterprise Mobility Foundation,” said Dr. Tim Borchers, President of West Liberty University. “This grant helps advance our efforts to prepare our students for careers in the Ohio Valley and beyond.”

The Enterprise Mobility Foundation™ is dedicated to strengthening the communities where Enterprise Mobility team members live and work by actively supporting a range of charitable causes, including education, health and human services, the environment, military support, and disaster relief. The Foundation has contributed more than half a billion dollars to thousands of local nonprofits in the United States and made wide-reaching commitments—from global philanthropic initiatives to community-focused projects.

This investment from the Enterprise Mobility Foundation will allow WLU to continue improving the educational experience for students and support them in their career development.  

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.

Enterprise Mobility is a leading provider of mobility solutions, including car rental, fleet management, flexible vehicle hire, carsharing, vanpooling, truck rental, luxury rental, retail car sales, and vehicle subscription, as well as other transportation technology services and solutions, to make travel easier and more convenient for customers. Enterprise Mobility, inclusive of its subsidiaries and franchisees, and affiliate, Enterprise Fleet Management, manage a diverse fleet of more than 2.4 million vehicles through an integrated network of over 9,500 fully staffed neighborhood and airport rental locations in more than 90 countries and territories. Privately held by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Enterprise Mobility manages the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, and Alamo brands.

John Craig (1972), a former Hilltopper wrestler and NAIA National Runner-Up, brings decades of experience in education and leadership. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from West Liberty and a master’s in School Administration from the University of Dayton.

Now retired, John served as principal and coach at Indian Creek High School and taught at Steubenville High School. He resides in Murrell’s Inlet, South Carolina.

Gregory T. Lawrence, Esq. (1994) is a partner at the international law firm Womble Bond Dickinson, working from offices in Baltimore, D.C., and New York. A former WLU Student Body President and wrestling team captain, Greg also teaches Securities Regulations at the University of Baltimore School of Law.

He serves as Chair of the Business Law Section of the Maryland State Bar Association. Greg and his wife Jennifer (1995) live in Maryland.

James Mull (2016) is President & CEO of The Mull Group, an international manufacturing and real estate company headquartered in Wheeling, West Virginia. Founded in 1961 by his grandfather, The Mull Group has grown to encompass heavy steel mill equipment manufacturing, commercial real estate, and galvanized steel production.

A proud West Liberty alumnus, James recently established a scholarship through the Gary E. West College of Business in honor of his late father, W. Quay Mull II, to support the next generation of business leaders. He remains actively involved in community and workforce development, serving on the board of the MAMC (Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center, formerly RCBI) and leading initiatives that promote skilled trades and American manufacturing.

Mike Sherman (2000) is Of Counsel in the Structured Credit practice at Paul Hastings LLP in Washington, D.C. His legal practice focuses on complex structured financings and securitizations across various asset classes, which has included first of its kind securitizations for Sotheby’s Financial Services and DSD Renewables.

Mike earned his accounting degree from WLU, followed by an M.S. in Accountancy from Wheeling Jesuit University (2001), becoming a certified public accountant (non-active currently), an M.B.A. from Capital University, and a J.D. from Duquesne University. Mike, a native of McMechen, WV, and his wife Jill, a native of Moundsville, WV, now reside in Washington, DC with their dog Wilford.

“We are thrilled to welcome these five outstanding individuals to the Foundation Board,” said Jeremey West, Chairman of the WLU Foundation Board of Directors. “Each of them brings a unique perspective and a shared passion for supporting the students and mission of West Liberty University. Their leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow our philanthropic impact.”

The WLU Foundation Board of Directors supports fundraising and stewardship efforts for West Liberty University, helping to advance the institution’s mission and create opportunities for students of all backgrounds. The Board’s current officers are: Jeremy West, Chair; Anissa Anderson, Vice Chair; David Croft, Treasurer; and Todd Cover, Secretary.

For more information about the WLU Foundation or to support its work, please visit westliberty.edu/foundation.

Audrey Ciripompa was a familiar and beloved figure within the West Liberty theatre community. Her enthusiasm for the performing arts and her consistent presence in the audience made her an enduring part of the university’s cultural life. Over the years, Audrey not only attended countless productions but also provided financial support to help the Theatre Department thrive.

In recognition of her generosity and unwavering commitment to the arts at West Liberty, Audrey Ciripompa will be honored as the Patron Spotlight in the 2026–27 season Playbill. This tribute will celebrate her legacy and highlight the lasting impact of philanthropic support on WLU’s vibrant theatre program.

“Audrey’s dedication to West Liberty’s Theatre Department has left a profound impression on our students and faculty,” said Michael Aulick, Chair of the WLU Theatre Department. “Her bequest reflects the kind of vision and support that sustains the arts and allows us to inspire future performers.”

For more information about supporting the WLU Theatre Department or making a planned gift, please contact the WLU Foundation at 304-336-5635 or visit wlufoundation.org.