West Virginia University emeritus professor of genetics Joginder Nath is making an additional gift to the College of Creative Arts to benefit the Art Museum of WVU, which will soon be under construction adjacent to the Creative Arts Center.
In 2008, Nath made a significant contribution to the art museum creating a sculpture garden and courtyard area that will be named in his honor. The Joginder Nath Sculpture Garden and Courtyard will feature an outdoor exhibit area.
The Art Museum of WVU will incorporate the former Erickson Alumni Center, which became the Museum Education Center in 2010, as well as a new building addition. Nath’s latest donation will be earmarked toward the new construction. At the request of the donor, gift amounts are not being disclosed.
“Jo Nath’s most recent gift to the Art Museum is a testament not only to his generosity and commitment but also to his vision and enthusiasm for what the Art Museum can become in the future for the University and the community,” said Joyce Ice, Art Museum director. “Jo makes thoughtful, intentional donations that are in keeping with his values and that have a meaningful impact. I am deeply grateful for his support.”
Nath, who has also given generously of his time as a volunteer member of the organizing committee of the Friends of the Art Museum of WVU, said he believes the museum will significantly enhance the quality of life in what is already one of the most livable small cities in America.
“With this latest gift, it’s my hope that the donation will help in moving the art museum project along,” Nath said. “My entire family has benefitted enormously from the many offerings provided by the College of Creative Arts, like music and the arts, and for that I am truly grateful. I believe for the College to continue on an upward trajectory, we all have to do as much as we can. I feel very strongly about this.”
Nath retired as professor of genetics at WVU in 2009 after 43 years of service, which included serving several decades as chairman of the department. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Panjab University in India and a doctorate in genetics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
He has won many awards for his research and teaching, including the Hollaender Award from the Environmental Mutagen Society in 1997 for research in genetics and genetic toxicology, as well as for his lifelong dedication to the inspiration, education and guidance of students from around the world.
Nath has also been presented with the Outstanding Researcher Award and an Outstanding Teacher Award from WVU’s Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry and Consumer Sciences (now the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design), and the Environmental Mutagen Society Education Award in 2000.
In 2002, his alma mater, Panjab University, presented him with the P.N. Mehra Memorial Award for an outstanding career in human genetics, toxicology and tumor cytogenetics.
The College of Creative Arts has committed to raise $3.5 million in private funds out of a total cost of $11 million for the art museum project, which will serve both the community and the region. The University will support free admission to the art museum and its educational programs so that there is no financial barrier for participants.
The museum will contain about 5,300 square feet of exhibition space, including gallery space for the WVU art collection and changing exhibitions. It will also house a university classroom and collection research study room. Museum offices and a museum shop will be among the features located in the Museum Education Center.
The Nath contribution was made in conjunction with A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University. The $750 million comprehensive campaign being conducted by the WVU Foundation on behalf of the University runs through December 2015.
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CONTACT: Charlene Lattea, College of Creative Arts
304-293-4359, Charlene.lattea@mail.wvu.edu
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