NC West Virginia News

Over the last fifty years, James "Jim" Gardill has significantly contributed to West Virginia University (WVU). His journey began as a student and evolved into roles such as adjunct professor, WVU Alumni Association chairman, donor, and current Chairman of the Loyalty Permanent Endowment Fund. He is also a member of the Order of Vandalia, with over 40 years of annual giving to his alma mater.

Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with WVU, Gardill describes it as one of appreciation and mutual commitment. Born in West Virginia's northern panhandle, he attended a Catholic seminary in Scranton before starting college at Wheeling University and then transferring to West Liberty University. It was there that a political science professor sparked his interest in law. "Obviously, the law school at Morgantown appealed to me," Gardill recalled.

In 1968, Gardill applied and was accepted into WVU College of Law. However, he had to postpone his plans when drafted into the Army due to changes in selective service deferments. The college held his place during his service at Fort Knox. "You don’t forget that," Gardill said.

After completing military service, he started law school in 1970 and met Linda, who would become his wife. They married in 1972. After graduating from the College of Law in 1973, Gardill pursued a legal career at Phillips, Gardill, Kaiser & Altmeyer PLLC in Wheeling.

Gardill's commitment to WVU grew alongside his career and family life. Starting with a $35 donation in 1980 for the Mountaineer Athletic Scholarship, he continued giving annually to various university programs like WVU Medicine Children’s and the Alumni Association.

“We had children by 1980,” Gardill remembered about starting donations modestly but consistently contributing back due to gratitude for opportunities received at WVU.

Throughout decades spent balancing legal practice with philanthropy work—including chairing Wesbanco—Gardill remained active within WVU circles by lecturing as an adjunct professor or serving on committees like visiting boards or alumni associations where networking played vital roles: “We always found ways...to provide support through trusts managed by banks."

Gardill became deeply involved with the Alumni Association thanks partly due efforts made possible via late Steve Douglas & Kevin Berry allowing interactions among nationwide Mountaineers sharing similar passions towards their institution’s welfare: “As you start meeting additional people...you get real feel what we can do together.”

Serving from 2001-08 within association board positions led initiatives including constructing Erickson Alumni Center building today housing organization itself; reflecting upon project results achieved collectively under guidance experienced members offered input throughout process resulting productive outcomes beneficial university long-term: “What ended up being signature building collective design engineers architects development individuals great eye detail.”