University of Charleston Will Rename Welch Hall
A dedication ceremony on September 26, 2026, will honor former university president Edwin H. Welch.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Awards
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The University of Charleston will officially rename a campus facility to Welch Hall during a ceremony on September 26, 2026. This dedication event coincides with the university's annual Homecoming and Family Weekend.
Why it matters
The renaming serves to recognize the tenure of Edwin H. Welch, who led the university for nearly three decades. This gesture highlights his long-term impact on the institution's leadership history.
Welch Hall is the home for the Physician Assistant and the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice programs. The dedication is part of a larger celebration marking the 60th reunion anniversary.
The players
Edwin H. Welch
He served as the president of the University of Charleston for 29 years between 1989 and 2018.
University of Charleston
This private university located in Charleston, West Virginia, hosts specialized medical programs.
The details
The university will hold a special naming ceremony to commemorate the facility, which serves as a primary hub for specialized medical training. This recognition follows a tradition of honoring major institutional contributors during major campus gatherings.
Timeline
Edwin H. Welch served as president from 1989 to 2018.
Homecoming and Family Weekend takes place from September 24 to September 26, 2026.
The building renaming ceremony is scheduled for September 26, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Roadmap
This dedication aligns with the university's ongoing efforts to preserve its institutional legacy during milestone celebrations. By naming facilities after former leaders, the school reinforces its historical continuity amidst current academic expansions.
Attendees at the upcoming Homecoming and Family Weekend should expect increased campus foot traffic and specific road or parking adjustments during the ceremony. The renaming will update campus maps and signage for all students, staff, and visitors frequenting the facility.
The takeaway
Recognizing long-term leaders through facility naming can foster a stronger sense of connection between alumni and the institution. Future campus visitors should note the updated name when identifying the Physician Assistant program building.
Further reading
Find more updates on campus honors and recognitions in the Charleston Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOWK 13 Huntington.
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