On Sunday Sept. 3, Gary West who was the largest benefactor for West Liberty University (WLU) passed away at the age of 86. West was a businessman and Wheeling native. Every student and alumni of West Liberty University knows the name of Gary West. Whether it’s from rowdy home football games at the West Family Stadium or walking through the Gary E. West College of Business in Main Hall, West’s impact on the university is seen all around campus.

Additionally, he was an alumni and supporter of WLU and his love for his alma mater was seen nearly 65 years after his graduation. West always accredited WLU as his ticket to success, giving him the resources to run a successful business. Also, he was the largest private donor in West Liberty University’s history. As a businessman, West always knew about the power of investment. He invested in one of the largest assets to not only his life, but thousands of students in West Virginia. West saw the need to invest in the future, and there is no better investment than a university that he called home.

The unfortunate loss of Gary West has been felt all over campus and he was honored during West Liberty’s football game on Sept. 9 with a moment of silence at the West Family stadium. West had a very strong impact here on The Hilltop and it will be felt for years to come.