Two-time West Virginia University graduate Mark Roth recently demonstrated how alumni of multiple colleges can blend their entire academic experience through their philanthropic goals.
Taking a “one WVU” approach to his philanthropy, Roth sought to give back to both of his academic homes, the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Business and Economics.
The generous alumnus designated WVU as the beneficiary of his IRA, currently valued at $400,000. The planned gift will be equally shared between the two colleges, and Roth will be recognized with membership in the Irvin Stewart Society.
“As educators, we hope once our students leave campus—diploma in hand—that they know they’ll always remain a part of the Mountaineer family,” said Gregory Dunaway, dean of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. “We’re humbled by Mark’s generosity not only because it speaks volumes to the positive experience he had while he was here, but also because of what we know his gift will do for our future students and the Department of Mathematics.”
The allocation to the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences will support the Department of Mathematics . At WVU’s business school, Roth’s gift will benefit continued excellence in the Accounting Department.
“Mark’s generosity and dedication to B&E directly impacts the College and its students in multiple ways,” said Javier Reyes, B&E Milan Puskar Dean. “The gift will benefit the Accounting Department and our dedication to programmatic and faculty excellence. At the same time, Mark has always supported the College of Business and Economics through the placement of students because he knows our graduates are highly skilled and job-ready. He has great faith in our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and preparation of students for real world successes.”
After earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1977 and a master’s degree in business administration in 1978, Roth pursued a career in finance and accounting. He worked as Wheeling Central Catholic High School’s business manager and algebra instructor while completing accounting courses to prepare for the certified public accountant’s examination. He has served as a CPA for nearly 35 years, and has been a partner at the Arlington, Va.-based accounting firm Hertzbach and Company since 2014.
This donation was made in conjunction with A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University . This $1 billion fundraising effort conducted by the WVU Foundation runs through December 2017.
