Minnick Endowment Increases to Over $1.9 Million

GIVING Minnick Endowment Increases to Over $1.9 Million

Although Professor Emerita Dr. Jean Minnick committed a $1 million estate gift to fund an endowed chair, her savvy investments have increased the amount to over $1.9 million. Minnick died February 25, 2021, at age 94 leaving behind a legacy that will provide a high-quality education for generations of sport science students. The legacy of Dr. Jean Minnick is alive and well on her beloved Davis & Elkins College campus. A lifetime of planning and forethought has resulted in this tangible expression of her love and concern for the students of D&E. Jean was a powerful influence on the young men and women she taught and the athletes she coached during her thirty-five years in the classroom and on the field. Though future students will not have the fortune of personally knowing Dr. Minnick, her legacy will be remembered along with so many of the great educators that have left indelible impressions on this college. The establishment of the A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science came in a surprise announcement to the campus community during the Founders’ Day Convocation in 2017. Minnick’s former student Dr. Mary Ann DeLuca ’80 was named as the inaugural holder of the chair. The A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science at Davis & Elkins College increased the number of endowed chairs to seven. The funds will remain in the endowment and the interest earned will provide support and vital resources for the Department of Sport Science. The Davis & Elkins College Department of Sport Science encompasses exercise science, physical education and sport management programs. The programs for students seeking a bachelor’s degree are designed to provide leadership and facilities for regular instruction and participation in physical activity. They also assist students in gaining a better understanding of the general principles and concepts involved in the fundamentals of effective movement patterns. Students are provided with working knowledge of the physiology of exercise and exercise testing and prescription so that graduates may pursue employment in public and privately owned wellness and fitness centers, corporate fitness facilities and clinical therapeutic programs. Those planning to continue their education at the graduate level will be well prepared. Known for encouraging her students to do their best, discovering their hidden talents and opening their worlds to sights unseen, Minnick served the College as a teacher and coach for 35 years. As coach of the women’s field hockey team, she finished with an astounding 145-21-14 career record over 17 seasons. The Division I teams recorded 12 undefeated seasons against nationally ranked teams, three Midwest

championships, four national qualifiers in Division I and a third-place finish in the Division I National Championships. Minnick coached five All-Midwest players, three All-South players and two All-American players. Minnick joined the faculty in 1963 and was later promoted to professor and chair in the Department of Health, Sport, and Movement Sciences. During her tenure, she was instrumental in the enhancement of majors and course offerings, adding exercise science and sports management majors, as well as a minor in athletic training. Minnick has received several accolades for her coaching and teaching achievements. In 2011, she was inducted into the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame. At D&E, she was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990 and was selected for the Lois Latham Award for Teaching Excellence. She was also honored with the West Virginia Celebrate Women Award, the West Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD) Honor Award, the Recognition Award from the West Virginia Sports Writers Association and named to the Traveler’s Century Club. Minnick earned a Ph.D. from New York University in 1970 and continued post-doctoral studies at the University of Utah, Penn State University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She received her Master of Science degree from WVU in 1964 and Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University School of Physical Education in 1949. Minnick is also a graduate of Marlinton High School in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. D&E President Chris A. Wood greets Dr. Jean Minnick, center, after announcing the establishment of the Dr. A. Jean Minnick Chair in Sport Science and naming Dr. Mary Ann DeLuca as the inaugural holder of the chair.

Tax Tip

Beginning at age 72, you are required to take minimum distributions (RMD’s) from both traditional IRA and Roth IRA accounts. These distributions are considered taxable income and could alter your adjusted gross income to a higher tax bracket. To avoid this scenario, RMD’s can be donated with no tax liability. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Davis & Elkins College would be an option as the beneficiary of RMD funds. Gifts may be designated at your discretion. For more information or assistance, please contact Cathy Nosel, Senior Director of Advancement: noselc@dewv.edu or call 304-637-1339.