The Gary E. West College of Business at West Liberty University is proud to bear the name of a successful alumnus and long-time friend of the university, Gary E. West (BSBA ’58).
West’s $1.5 million donation reflected his desire to create opportunities for students who, like West, hope to become successful business leaders. West was a strong supporter and powerful advocate for his alma mater, crediting the education he received on the hilltop with laying the groundwork for his incredible success as a business leader and entrepreneur.
“Without West Liberty, I probably wouldn’t even know what a balance sheet or profit and loss statement is,” said West. “West Liberty teaches you what you need to know…then later, you put those practices to work, and hopefully, you refine them and make your company better.”
West spoke from experience, having started his career by purchasing Valley Welding Supply Company and later refining the business practices he learned at West Liberty to grow the single shop into Valley National Gases, Inc. West’s business became the largest privately held distributor of industrial and medical gases and welding supplies in the United States. Until his passing in September 2023 West continued his involvement in several business ventures, with he and wife of more than 60 years, Phyllis (Flip) West – also a West Liberty graduate – enjoying the fruits of their labors, traveling and dividing time between the Wheeling area and their home in Florida all while consistently remaining the most generous benefactors in the history of West Liberty University, contributing to numerous projects across the WLU campus.
Highlights included their major gift to the Gary E. West College of Business Scholarship Program, the establishment of the Guy H. and Mary Ann West School of Business Scholarship Endowment, the renovation of West Family Stadium and the construction of the West Family Athletic Complex as well as the Appalachian Aquatic Conservation Center, which will be located adjacent to the WLU campus with the land and building donated by the Wests.
Dr. Ann Saurbier, Dean of the Gary E. West College of Business, said West’s impact on the student experience at West Liberty will honor his memory for years to come.
“Gary E. West’s impact has been, and will continue to be, felt by students and faculty alike. His generosity and focus on enhancing the College of Business has enabled us to strengthen our programs and the West Liberty University student experience in ways that truly pay tribute to his legacy.”
West was inducted into the West Liberty Alumni Wall of Honor in 1993 – the university’s highest alumni recognition – and became a member of the West Virginia Business Hall of Fame in 2006. The 1995 West Virginia Wholesale Distribution Entrepreneur of the Year, Gary and Flip were honored by the WLU Foundation in 2021 with the inaugural Lifetime Impact of Philanthropy Award.
Along with his financial generosity, West supported the university for many years with his time and insights while serving on the West Liberty Foundation’s Board of Directors and its executive committee.
