WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., December 16, 2024 – West Liberty University (WLU) recently learned of the passing of former President Dr. Ronald Zaccari, who died on November 29, after a short illness.
Dr. Zaccari served as WLU President from July 1, 1996 to June 30, 2001. During his tenure, Bonar Hall was renovated, WLU hosted the Governor’s School for the Arts, and the ASRC was dedicated.
“It was my good fortune to work, as Provost, directly with Dr. Zaccari during his tenure at West Liberty. His phenomenal work ethic was always directed toward building upon and enhancing WL’s attributes and improving the student experience,” said Dr. John McCullough, who followed Dr. Zaccari as Interim WLU President. “As one example, his efforts, along with the work of Jim Watson, built our ASRC, which has been a showcase for the school. Dr. Z had high expectations for those around him, but he responded with quality mentorship and lasting friendship.”
Dr. David Javersak, in his history of West Liberty University noted, “Enrollments increased in 1995, 1999, 2000, and 2001, and faculty salaries also advanced. Preliminary steps were taken to permit the college to achieve university status.”
Prior to his first presidential appointment at West Liberty, Dr. Zaccari was Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Southeastern Louisiana University. He held art professorships at Edinboro State University and the University of Colorado.
His higher education degrees are from institutions in the northeast, including a master’s degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctorate from Pennsylvania State University.
Following his time at West Liberty, Dr. Zaccari was named President at Valdosta State University in Georgia and served there from January 2002 to June 2008.
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. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
