E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Twitter Website
E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Twitter Website
West Virginia University (WVU) is set to provide new opportunities for students through a $5 million donation made in memory of the late Jerry West. Steve Ballmer, chairman of the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers, and his wife, Connie, contributed the gift following West's passing on June 12, 2024. The announcement aligns with Jerry West Day during WVU's men's basketball game against Iowa State.
The donation will establish a fund supporting completion grants for students facing financial difficulties that threaten their ability to continue their education. Additionally, it will enhance the Jerry West Scholarship for undergraduate students from West Virginia with financial need. This scholarship has supported many since its inception in 1971.
WVU President Gordon Gee stated, "This generous gift from Steve and Connie Ballmer ensures that future generations of West Virginia University students will have the opportunity to explore their passions, discover their purpose and achieve their own success, just as Jerry West did."
Cindi Roth, president and CEO of the WVU Foundation, expressed gratitude for the donation: "I have no doubt Jerry West would be thrilled by this meaningful gift to his alma mater."
Jerry West was known as "The Logo" due to his influence on the iconic NBA logo silhouette. He became a three-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame last fall. His basketball journey began in Chelyan, Kanawha County, leading WVU to significant success in the 1950s.
After being drafted by the Lakers in 1960 as No. 2 overall pick, he spent 14 seasons there before transitioning into an executive role where he contributed significantly to multiple teams' successes.
Wren Baker, WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics said: "Jerry West’s legacy will live on in the hearts of West Virginians forever."
Post-retirement saw him providing guidance to both Golden State Warriors and LA Clippers as a consultant until his death.
Steve Ballmer highlighted their intention behind this contribution: “When we talked about this gift... it got to Jerry’s real spirit of wanting to help those people who may not have been blessed in the same way he was.”
Steve and Connie Ballmer co-founded Ballmer Group Philanthropy which supports expanding economic opportunities across America.
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