WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University (WLU) Foundation proudly announces the establishment of the Howard and Theresa Lemasters Scholarship, created through a generous $100,000 bequest to support future generations of students pursuing business degrees.
The scholarship fund will provide financial assistance to graduates of Barnesville High School and Union Local High School who choose to pursue a major in the Gary E. West College of Business at West Liberty University. Income generated from the endowed fund will support scholarships in perpetuity, ensuring a lasting legacy of educational opportunity.
Theresa Lemasters, who passed away on July 14, 2023, was a proud alumna of West Liberty University, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree before going on to complete a Master of Education at the University of Pittsburgh and pursuing additional graduate studies.
Her husband, Howard Lemasters, who passed away on September 19, 2013, was also a proud alumnus of West Liberty University. He received his M.Ed. from the University of Pittsburgh, where he continued his education to complete all coursework for a Doctoral degree.
Throughout their lives, both Lemasters were devoted to education. Theresa was a respected business education teacher at Barnesville High School and also taught at Belmont College and Ohio University Eastern. Howard taught business education at Barnesville High School, Belmont Technical College and Ohio Eastern University.
In addition to their professional accomplishments, Howard and Theresa Lemasters remained deeply connected to West Liberty University as engaged alumni and philanthropists. They were loyal donors to the University for nearly three decades and were longtime members of the President’s Circle and John P. McCullough Society.
“This remarkable bequest is a powerful reflection of Howard and Theresa Lemasters’ lifelong commitment to education and community,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the West Liberty University Foundation. “Through the establishment of this scholarship, their legacy will continue to open doors for students pursuing business degrees, especially those from the communities that meant so much to them. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and for the enduring impact this gift will have on future Hilltoppers.”
Recipients of the Howard and Theresa Lemasters Endowed Scholarship will be selected by the University, with consideration given to academic promise and commitment to business studies. The scholarship will be available to award for the 2027-2028 Academic Year.
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
