WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University Foundation is honored to announce a transformative bequest gift of more than $600,000 from the estate of Jack E. Cisney, a beloved educator and longtime supporter of higher education. This generous gift establishes the Jack E. Cisney Scholarship, an endowed fund that will provide financial assistance to students majoring in accounting and other business disciplines at West Liberty University.
Jack E. Cisney, who passed away on May 24, 2024, at the age of 87, dedicated his life to education, service, and philanthropy. Born in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Cisney earned degrees from Susquehanna University and the University of Scranton before embarking on a distinguished teaching career. He served as a faculty member at West Liberty University and later retired from West Virginia Northern Community College.
Beyond the classroom, Cisney contributed his time and leadership as a member of the Board of Trustees for the West Virginia Northern Community College Foundation and the Board of Directors at Russell Nesbitt. He was also involved in several civic organizations, including the Wheeling Elks Lodge and Oglebay Institute, and took pride in his heritage as a Mayflower descendant.
“Jack Cisney’s legacy will live on through the students who benefit from this scholarship,” said Dr. Ann Saurbier, Dean of the Gary E. West College of Business. “His generosity reflects his lifelong dedication to education and his belief in the power of opportunity. We are grateful for his commitment to supporting future business leaders.”
Jeffrey R. Miller, Esq., the Executor of Mr. Cisney’s estate, noted that Cisney lived a modest and disciplined life which allowed him to accumulate significant wealth over time. His estate was divided among four institutions—West Liberty University, West Virginia Northern Community College, and the two Pennsylvania universities he attended.
“Mr. Cisney was clearly a person who placed others before himself,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the WLU Foundation. “The University and our students are very fortunate to be the beneficiaries of both his prudence and his generosity.”
Following a vesting period, the endowed scholarship will be available beginning in the 2027–2028 academic year, providing annual awards to qualified students pursuing business degrees at WLU, with preference given to those majoring in accounting. This impactful gift supports West Liberty University’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for meaningful careers and lifelong success.
The Gary E. West College of Business at West Liberty University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in today’s global economy. With a focus on experiential learning, innovation, and individualized instruction, the College equips students with the skills and experience necessary for successful careers in business and industry.
For details about the Jack E. Cisney Scholarship or to contribute to the WLU Foundation, please contact Betsy Delk at 304-336-5635 or visit wlufoundation.org.
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
