The Shepherd University Foundation Celebrates 60 Years

by Kristi Veach-Ross

The 2021-22 academic year marked the Shepherd University Foundation’s 60th anniversary. Founded in 1961, the Foundation has strengthened the work and service of Shepherd by working with donors to raise money for student scholarships, academic and program support, and faculty excellence awards, as well as other University initiatives such as campus renewal and beautification. Since its beginning, the Foundation has upheld its mission to advance the University, and more than a half century later, this goal remains strong.

The Foundation was formed through the collaborative efforts of President Oliver S. Ikenberry and a small group of Shepherd College faculty and alumni. Since its founding, it has celebrated many milestones, propelled by the generosity of the Shepherd community.

The first 20 years of the Foundation were a whirlwind of growth and change. Dean William “Pappy” Thacher served as the first Foundation president, and in 1972, James “Hank” Moler ’30 became the organization’s second president. In 1984, nearly 25 years after its creation, the Foundation awarded approximately $70,000 in student scholarships.

“Without the aid of the private funds raised and administered through the Foundation, Shepherd University would not be able to achieve and maintain our status as a premiere public liberal arts institution,” said Shepherd President Mary J.C. Hendrix, who recognized that the Foundation’s contributions to the University have been significant and too numerous to name individually. “The Foundation’s dedication to ensuring educational opportunities for our deserving students and enhancing the academic excellence of Shepherd University has provided a wonderfully productive partnership that continues to flourish.”

In more recent years, the Foundation has expanded its reach by creating programs such as the McMurran Society, which recognizes alumni and friends who have chosen to include Shepherd in their estate plans; the Scarborough Society, a friendsof-the-library association; and most recently, Women Investing in Shepherd, a women’s giving circle that awards high-impact grants to both Shepherd and nonprofits in the surrounding community. The Foundation has also provided private funding for new campus initiatives, building the Potomac Place residence hall, and creating funds specifically for faculty excellence support. The Foundation currently manages assets of just under $60 million, providing $2.5 million in direct support for the University each year.

(Pictured, l. to r.) Former Foundation President Ramon A. Alvarez ’62, former Foundation Executive Vice President Monica Lingenfelter, former Foundation President Mike Smith ’89, and current Foundation President Chris Colbert ’95.

Sam Levitan Photography

“As I reflect back on the 60-year history of the Shepherd University Foundation, I recognize that we could not have come this far without the active engagement and generous donations from passionate and loyal alumni and friends, and the time and efforts of volunteer leaders and dedicated staff,” said Shepherd University Foundation President Chris Colbert ’95. “On behalf of the Foundation, I sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to 60 years of helping Shepherd students succeed.”

Throughout the years, the Foundation has grown to have one of the highest endowments among public universities and colleges in West Virginia. The unwavering support of the Shepherd community is an essential pillar in the Foundation’s continued success. The generosity of loyal alumni, faculty, and friends is the driving force behind the Foundation’s future.

As the Foundation celebrates the past 60 years, the future is full of possibility and excitement. The Foundation has and will remain dedicated to its commitment and mission to support the advancement and success of Shepherd University.

“I’m privileged and excited to be leading such a dynamic organization at a time when “the future is very bright,” Colbert said. “Our goal is to keep the momentum going.”