The Marshall University Foundation has announced a gift of $100,000 to establish the Mary “Mickey” Welch Scholarship. The scholarship is generously endowed by Welch’s daughter, Mary Anne Ketelsen.
Welch was a pioneering entrepreneur and philanthropist who broke barriers in male-dominated industries. As the owner of multiple businesses, including Welch Oil & Gas, Welch Music, and Classic Rope, she became the first woman in West Virginia to drill an oil well. Her success and leadership served as an inspiration to women entering the trades and business world.
The recipient of this scholarship will be a full-time student of Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center’s career skills programs, which includes machinist technology, welding technology and SMART (systems maintenance, automation and robotics technology).
“We’re incredibly thankful to Mary Anne for this generous gift, which will directly support students in our trade programs,” said Nico Karagosian, president and CEO of the Marshall University Foundation. “The scholarship will provide hands-on training and real opportunities to prepare our students for these in-demand careers.”
Welch, who died in August 2019, was deeply committed to giving back, supporting numerous nonprofits and serving on several community boards.
“She was especially passionate about helping young people access education and opportunity, often directing her philanthropy toward hands-on learning and support for underserved youth,” Ketelsen said. “This scholarship honors her legacy by supporting students pursuing careers in the trades — fields she championed through her work and example.”
The award will be renewable up to four years, or eight semesters, if the recipient maintains good academic standing. The vice president of economic and workforce development, or their designee, will select the recipient and renew the award in cooperation with the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
For information regarding the Mary “Mickey” Welch Scholarship, please contact Marshall University’s Office of Student Financial Assistance at 304-696-3162.