University of Charleston Celebrates Legacy of Dr. Edwin H. Welch with Hall Dedication

CHARLESTON, WV - After nearly 30 years spent transforming the University of Charleston, one of the campus buildings Dr. Edwin H. Welch helped bring to life now bears his name.

University leaders, trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, family and friends gathered Thursday evening to officially dedicate Edwin Welch Hall, honoring the former president whose 29 years of leadership helped shape the modern University of Charleston.

"This is overwhelming to me," Welch said. "To see so many familiar faces here, I'm not sure I have enough words to express my gratitude for what's happening and for you being here to be part of it. Presidents don't run institutions. They have an opportunity to lead them. Hundreds of people helped me do exactly that, and I have deep thanks for all of them."

Originally constructed as the home of the University's School of Pharmacy, Welch Hall today houses two growing graduate programs in UC's School of Health Sciences: the Physician Assistant and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice programs. Together, the programs prepare advanced healthcare professionals to serve West Virginia and the Greater Appalachia region.

The dedication celebrated Welch's impact on the University, from the physical transformation of its campus to the expansion of its academic programs and reach. Welch served as president from 1989 to 2018, leading one of the most transformative periods in UC history.

"You think about this beautiful campus we have and it is now bookended by the Welch name," UC President Marty Roth said. "You have the Welch Athletic Complex on one end and now Welch Hall on the other, and so many great things happening in between. He is a remarkable man who has accomplished so much, and we could not be more proud or grateful for everything he has done for the University of Charleston. But for me, I am most grateful that during my time here, I have been able to call him a friend."

UC also expanded to Beckley, entered the adult online education market and constructed seven of the buildings that define today's Charleston campus. Among them was the building that now carries his name.

"We should all be very proud of the history of this University, and the person who really helped set so much of that in motion was Dr. Welch," UC Board of Trustees Chairman Dave Ramsey said. "I've learned a great deal about leadership from him. I've admired him, and I'm proud to call him my friend."

During his tenure, the University redefined its mission, expanded academic opportunities, achieved record fundraising, increased full-time enrollment and earned national recognition for innovation in outcomes-based learning and student assessment.

"We had the opportunity to update the University's mission, which I believe is incredibly powerful," Welch said. "I wish the University of Charleston many more years of educating each student for a life of productive work, enlightened living and community involvement. Thank you all for coming."