The West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (CPASS) has received its largest donation in history – approximately $3.4 million – from the late Dr. Patricia K. Fehl.
The donation from Fehl’s estate will provide scholarship for CPASS undergraduate students and funding for the College’s new facility scheduled to open in fall 2014. Fehl is a former department chair at CPASS.
“This extraordinary gift will transform and move the College forward as we enter a new era in our history,” said Dean Dana D. Brooks. “Pat’s generosity will help current and future students by providing new learning opportunities, ensure we have high quality faculty and assist in the construction costs of a new building that will house our College on the Evansdale Campus. We are truly grateful.”
Brooks noted Fehl’s positive impact on the College during her tenure, including the implementation of the College’s Basic Instruction Program and the community-based children and adult programs known as the Lifetime Activities Program.
The gift establishes a number of College funds, including Dr. Pat Fehl Undergraduate Scholarships, an endowed professorship and an academic enhancement endowment. The donation will also be used to support the Dr. Pat Fehl International Program Endowment, wellness/health fund and the CPASS building fund.
“For Dr. Fehl to have made this incredible gift exemplifies beyond words her love for the work of the University and especially the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences,” said WVU President Jim Clements. “She has given the ultimate gift of education to students she will never meet. Those students will ultimately benefit from this special gift and her desire to create educational opportunities for the students at WVU.”
Fehl, who died in July 2012, served as administrator and department chair of general physical education at CPASS from 1973-89. She hired numerous graduate assistants across various disciplines while serving as a mentor to students. She had a positive impact on graduates and encouraged their success in the field. She was known by faculty and students as a leader, Brooks said.
“Pat Fehl was truly a remarkable person who had a significant impact on my life. She was a pioneer in many respects with her establishment of the physical activity program for credit and non-credit for WVU students and the community,” said Valerie Wayda, CPASS department chair and former student. “In addition, she was a female administrator in a time period when there were few women administrators. She set high standards for anyone who worked for her because she believed the participants in her programs deserved the best.”
“Her desire to give back while establishing a legacy within the College will leave a lasting impact on CPASS students.”
Fehl came to CPASS from the University of Cincinnati. She also earned degrees from DePauw and Indiana University.
In 1990, she was inducted into the CPASS Hall of Fame. She received many national, regional and state awards, including the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Honor Award in recognition of her service to the professional organization.
The gift was made to the WVU Foundation as part of A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University, a $750 million fundraising effort the Foundation is conducting on behalf of the University.
“Pat Fehl obviously had a special place in her heart for WVU and the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences,” said Wayne King, WVU Foundation president and CEO. “She made a difference in the lives of many of the students she taught in the classroom, and her very generous gift will ensure that her legacy is carried forward for many years to come.”
