Letter From The Dean

Dear CPASS Alumni and Friends,

Last year, the WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences celebrated its 85th Anniversary, honoring the first class to graduate.The celebration began in September 2017 with a historical tribute presented by former Dean J.William Douglas and welcome remarks delivered by WVU Basketball Coach Bob Huggins.

I had the opportunity to write the prologue for Dean Douglas’ book, “The School of Physical Education at West Virginia University; An Historical Perspective 1891-1999.” The prologue began with the following quote: “Organizations,like individuals, must be big enough to admit mistakes, smart enough to profit from them, and strong enough to correct them” – (Johnnetta B. Cole, 1977). I believe the quote is very appropriate as we chronicle the evolution and growth of the College, its faculty, staff, students and alumni.

CPASS has benefited from the establishment of two endowed professorships: the Ware Family Distinguished Professorship and Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor. Major gifts include those from Dr. Patricia K. Fehl, John and Kacey Gay, Al and Dee Ware, FiT Publishing Company as donated by Andrew Ostrow, Phil Ostrow and William Alsop, and room dedications, such as provided by Norman Harris, John Semon, Jack Roberts, Libby Leaseburg Manus, Ferris and Deanna Antoon, John and Sabra Spiker and Bob and June Huggins.

Ten CPASS alumni have been inducted into the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni: Linda Carson, Judy Hayes, Chuck Howley, Alfred Ware, Robert DeProspero, Fred Schaus, George Esper, General Earl Anderson, JerryWest and Robert “Sam” Huff.

Other notable achievements include the establishment of the electronic CPASS Hall of Fame and Wall of Honor feature wall, three online MS degree programs, the Office of Student Success, continued guidance from the CPASS Visiting Committee and various lecture series.

Looking toward the future, the College’s faculty, staff and students will witness the continuation of the following efforts: Utilizing technology to enhance student learning; developing cutting-edge and forward-looking programs;globalizing the College’s academic programs, including faculty/student exchange programs, study abroad and collaborative research activities; seeking external funding to support research, service and teaching expectations; and maintaining branding and marketing strategy.

The future is bright for our College, with a focus on positive actions to position us as a world-premiere Kinesiology program and our continued focus on our mission, vision and values.

Respectfully,

Dana Brooks
Dean, College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences