The newly-established Willie and Linda Akers Endowed Scholarship will support qualified students in the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences.
The $25,000 endowment will focus on scholarships for undergraduate students at CPASS, with first preference for students in the athletic coaching education major.
“Dean Dana Brooks has kept Linda and me close to CPASS with his tireless efforts to include us in event updates and news about the ever-growing college,” Akers explained. “We are so happy to create this scholarship. WVUplayed an absolute integral party in my life. Hopefully, this gift will inspire future coaches.”
A native of Mullens, Akers holds a bachelor’s (1960) in physical education and a master’s (1966) degree in education from WVU. He was inducted into the CPASS Hall of Fame in 1991 and earned Outstanding Alumnus status for his numerous achievements and contributions to the college, including service on the college’s visiting committee.
“There were many who helped me along my journey as a student-athlete in the physical education program. I am forever grateful for my friends and mentors while at WVU,” Akers added.
Akers was an outstanding athlete and successful high school coach at Logan High School, a school administrator and a lifelong supporter of his alma mater, having served on the WVU Board of Advisors and the WVU Alumni Association Board of Directors. He currently serves on the Logan County Commission.
He and his wife Linda are active members of the First Presbyterian Church in Logan. Linda is active in community affairs, serving as president of Logan County Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors, Logan County Charitable and Educational Foundation and Board of Governors, Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College.
“Willie and Linda’s gift will offer excellent opportunities for students wanting to further their education while helping our most promising students. As we expand our programs and learning experiences for students on their way to launching meaningful coaching careers, donor support becomes increasingly important to the college,” said Dana D. Brooks dean and professor of physical education.
Akers’ numerous awards include the Order of Vandalia (1999), West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame (1991 and 2002) and the Mullens and Logan High School Halls of Fame (1994).
Willie and Linda are the parents of Darren and wife Alice, Chad and wife Michelle, all WVU graduates, and grandparents of Connor, Will, McKenzie and Jackson.
The gift was made in conjunction with A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University which runs through December 2017.