West Liberty University Foundation Honors Philanthropic Leaders at President’s Recognition Banquet

West Liberty University Foundation’s 2026 Impact of Philanthropy honorees gather with university leadership and guests during the President’s Recognition Banquet on Friday, Oct. 16, as part of Homecoming Weekend.

Back row from left:  Betsy Delk, WLU Foundation Executive Director, Dick Pannett, Dr. David Edwards, Tom Pannett, Neil Hudson, Brian Bunch, Todd Kimpel, John Blangor, Clifton Spinner, Dr. Tim Borchers, WLU President, Michael Dart

Front row from left: Connie Pannett, Linda Edwards, Karen Pannett, Joyce Kimpel, Bella Dart, Jan Pannett

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University Foundation celebrated the generosity and commitment of its donors during the President’s Recognition Banquet on Friday, Oct. 16, as part of Homecoming Weekend festivities. The event brought together alumni, friends, university leadership, and supporters to recognize those whose philanthropy is making a lasting difference for West Liberty University students and programs. The Alumni Wall of Honor Class of 2026 was also inducted at the event.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Impact of Philanthropy Awards, which honor individuals and families whose generosity has strengthened educational opportunities and advanced the mission of West Liberty University. This year’s honorees were recognized for establishing scholarships and providing transformational support that will benefit generations of Hilltoppers.

2026 Impact of Philanthropy Honorees

Dr. David and Linda Edwards

Dr. David and Linda Edwards were honored for their longstanding commitment to West Liberty University and their generous support of student success. Both graduates of West Liberty State College, the Edwards have established two endowed scholarships supporting students in Biology and Dental Hygiene. Most recently, through the Dr. David G. Edwards and Linda S. Edwards Private Foundation, they provided significant support to the University’s Dental Hygiene Program, helping fund specialized clinical equipment that enhances student training and patient care. In addition to their philanthropy, Linda Edwards has served more than a decade on the Foundation’s Board of Directors, providing leadership and guidance in support of the University’s mission.

Michael Dart and Bella Dart

Michael Dart and Bella Dart were recognized for establishing the Megan Dart Endowed Volleyball Scholarship in memory of Megan Maureen Dart, their wife and mother, who passed away in 2025 following a battle with neuroendocrine cancer. The scholarship supports West Liberty volleyball student-athletes pursuing healthcare-related degrees and reflects Megan’s love for family, service, and the Hilltopper Volleyball program. Through their generosity, the Dart family has created a lasting tribute that transforms personal loss into opportunity for future students.

Todd and Joyce Kimpel

Todd and Joyce Kimpel received an Impact of Philanthropy Award for their investment in future financial professionals through the Todd and Joyce Kimpel Family Financial Planning Scholarship. Throughout distinguished careers in financial services, including leadership roles with Commonwealth Financial Services, the Kimpels demonstrated a commitment to mentoring young professionals. Their scholarship provides support to outstanding Financial Planning majors and reflects their desire to help students pursue meaningful careers in the profession they served so successfully. The Kimpels have also supported West Liberty students through internships and employment opportunities over many years.

Dick, Tom, and Jan Pannett

The Pannett family was recognized for establishing the Pannett Family Endowed Physical Education Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in physical education. Dick, Tom, and Jan Pannett are all proud West Liberty graduates whose lives have been shaped by athletics, coaching, teaching, and leadership. Their scholarship honors a family legacy rooted in education and service while helping future educators achieve their own goals.

John Blangor, Bryan Bunch, Neal Hudson, and Clifton Spinner

John Blangor, Bryan Bunch, Neal Hudson, and Clifton Spinner were honored for their dedication to expanding educational access through the Blangor, Bunch, Hudson & Spinner Scholarship. These lifelong friends who attended West Liberty together established the scholarship to support graduates of Steubenville Big Red High School who choose to continue their education at West Liberty. Their commitment to mentorship, friendship, and opportunity continues to positively impact students while honoring the support they received during their own college years.

“We are grateful for the generosity of these outstanding donors and the example they set for others,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the West Liberty University Foundation. “Their gifts create opportunities, remove barriers, and change lives. Their commitment to West Liberty ensures that future generations of students will benefit from the same transformative educational experience that shaped so many of our alumni.”

In addition to recognizing the Impact of Philanthropy honorees, the Foundation acknowledged members of its donor recognition societies and celebrated the collective philanthropic support that continues to advance the University and its students.

For more information about supporting West Liberty University through the Foundation, visit wlufoundation.org.

About West Liberty University

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu