Sandra and John Marshall have established a planned gift at WVU's College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences.
A West Virginia University graduate who earned a physical education teacher education degree has established a new gift for the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences and the Mountaineer Athletic Club. Sandra and John Marshall have established the planned gift to provide support for students in CPASS, student-athlete scholarships and athletic capital project improvements.
CPASS Dean Dana D. Brooks said the Marshall’s generous gift helps both expand the College’s academic efforts and attract highly-qualified students.
“The funds fill an ongoing need at CPASS as we expand our academic programs and learning experiences for students,” Brooks said. “We continue to attract outstanding students who go on to make exceptional contributions in their field.”
With the new gift, the Marshalls will become members of the WVU Foundation Irvin Stewart Society.
Marshall, who is a retired insurance agent, earned her B.S. P.E. degree in 1969 and master’s in P.E. in 1971. She grew up in Wheeling and now lives in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Her husband, John Marshall, is a graduate of Salem College. The Marshalls are active in community affairs, enjoy traveling and are ardent fans of WVU sports.
“Sandra and John have been incredible supporters of WVU Athletics through the Mountaineer Athletic Club for the past four decades,” said Ben Murray, senior associate athletic director/executive director of the MAC. “Not only have they provided personal contributions to the MAC, but they have also spearheaded the BMAC, which is a grassroots fundraising group that raises money to help support a student-athlete from the Ohio Valley to attend WVU on an athletic scholarship. Sandra and John’s loyalty towards the state flagship institution is unrivaled.”
Marshall credits her career success to the leadership and direction she received as a student at WVU.
“My parents, sister and two uncles attended WVU. It’s in my blood,” Marshall said. Once I arrived, I received excellent training from Dr. Wincie Caruth, Kacey Wiedebusch and Kittie Blakemore. Their guidance prepared me for my first job. My WVU training not only helped with teaching and running a community park, but gave me confidence to be an executive secretary, sell real estate and become a licensed insurance agent. It was preparation for life after college.”
Marshall credits her friendship with Brooks as her continuing inspiration to give back to the University.
“Our decision to create this new gift was because of the 25-year-plus association with the College and Dean Brooks,” she said. “He continued to invite me back to campus for visits. When we returned for the new building dedication almost three years ago, my choice was cemented. I was very impressed.”
The gift was made in conjunction with "A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia's University" which runs through December.
For more information on the comprehensive campaign, visit www.astateofminds.com or www.cpass.wvu.edu.
-WVU-