NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University (WVU) annually honors individuals who significantly contribute to the institution and its community during Mountaineer Week. This year's "Most Loyal" awards recognize alumni, faculty, staff, and friends for their dedication to WVU.

The 2024 honorees include Steve Conrad as Most Loyal West Virginian; Scott Branham as Most Loyal Alumni Mountaineer; Rebecca Fint-Clark as Most Loyal Faculty/Professional Staff; and Donna Staggs as Most Loyal Staff Mountaineer. These individuals will be celebrated during halftime at the WVU home football game against Baylor on November 16 at Milan Puskar Stadium.

Recipients of this honor must exemplify loyalty to WVU and West Virginia through professional and civic engagement, business activities, service, and leadership. The selection is made by a committee representing various WVU bodies including the Foundation, Alumni Association, Staff Council, Faculty Senate, and the Mountaineer Week organization committee.

Steve Conrad graduated from WVU in 1964 with a degree in animal husbandry before serving as a Navy fighter pilot. He has been actively involved with the university through service on committees and financial contributions like the Conrad Farms Agriculture Scholarship. Conrad's family continues to operate their farm in Brandywine.

Scott Branham from Parkersburg holds degrees in marketing and business data analytics from WVU. He co-founded Data Driven WV at the John Chambers College of Business and Economics where he also advises students on career development.

Rebecca Fint-Clark grew up engaged in 4-H programs which inspired her commitment to community service. She holds degrees in physical education/teacher education and public health from WVU. As a 4-H Extension agent in Monongalia County, she has expanded youth programs focusing on state history pride.

Donna Staggs has worked at WVU for 36 years as a program manager for the College of Applied Human Sciences. In 2017 she earned her bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies to better serve as an ambassador for the university.