WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., Dec. 15, 2015 — West Liberty University Christmas Wish Tree took on a new meaning this year.
“The faculty, staff and students are happy to continue its annual tradition of a holiday giving tree, providing gifts for children in need. But this year it took on a double meaning as the tree reminds us of our colleague Beth Salatino, who passed away suddenly just a few weeks ago,” said Rhonda Tysk, transfer student coordinator and longtime member of the admissions team.
From left Enrollment Services staff prepare the gifts for holiday distribution, from left are Rhonda Tysk, Laura Willis and Stephanie North.
Salatino was financial aid counselor and worked closely with Tysk. A happy, helpful person, she looked forward to the holidays and coordinated the wish tree for many years. In fact, Salatino worked at WLU for all 25 years of the tree’s existence.
After she passed away on Nov. 3, a scholarship fund was established in the West Liberty University Foundation in her memory. Also an alumna, Beth was married to alumnus and employee Anthony Salatino.
“Beth was thrilled to coordinate the wish tree and helped make Christmas brighter for many of our neighbors in need. We are all devastated by her unexpected death. We miss her and still struggle to make peace with this huge loss, but the Christmas Wish Tree is something she loved,” Tysk said. “She enjoyed making others happy and we are happy to give to others this Christmas in her memory.”
“This year we are supporting the Children’s Home of Wheeling, St. John’s Children’s Home, and the Crittenton Services.”
The tree was displayed in the Enrollment Services Center, located in Shaw Hall, for about three weeks and gathered 77 gifts.
“Our employees and even our students donate and pick a tag from the tree. Everyone’s happy to make a child’s wish come true,” she said.
Each tag had a child’s name and personal Christmas wish printed on it. Participants then purchased the gift ($20 value), placed it in a gift bag, and returned the tag and gift to the Enrollment Center.
Participants also were encouraged to make a monetary donation rather than shop for a gift, if they preferred. This money will be divided among the three organizations, according to Tysk.
“We thank everyone for getting involved and keeping the Christmas Wish Tree going,” said Tysk. “Beth would be pleased.”
West Liberty University is a forward-looking, four-year public university steeped in a rich heritage as West Virginia’s oldest institution of higher education. Five colleges and a School of Professional Studies offer more than 60 majors and 30 programs that are nationally recognized or accredited. Graduate programs include the Master of Arts in Education, the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and the Master of Professional Studies degrees. For more information, please call 1.866.WESTLIB or visit westliberty.edu.
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