Two West Virginia State University alumni have established a grant to help local STEM students finance their college education.
WVSU officials announced the creation of the James and Elaine Hill Endowed Scholarship, established through a gift by the scholarship's namesakes, both graduates of the university. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to students, with preference given to female students from Charleston who are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields, as well as students majoring in chemistry.
University officials said the scholarship reflects the Hills’ longstanding commitment to education, public service and expanding opportunities for future generations.
“Jim and Elaine Hill exemplify the values of leadership, service, and academic excellence that define West Virginia State University,” WVSU President Ericke S. Cage said in a release. “Through this endowed scholarship, they will create opportunities for future generations of WVSU students and inspire them to lead lives of purpose and service.”
Elaine Hill graduated from what was then West Virginia State College in 1958 and went on to build a career focused on advocacy and social services. After battling breast cancer, she co-founded Breast Cancer Support Services in Chattanooga, Tennessee, helping expand support and outreach efforts for underserved communities. Throughout her life, she has supported initiatives involving health care, education, youth development and the arts, officials said.
James “Jim” Hill graduated from the university in 1957 with a degree in chemistry. His career included military service, corporate leadership, nonprofit management and civic engagement. He became the first African American to teach at the United States Military Academy at West Point and later held leadership roles with DuPont, the Tennessee Aquarium and the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation.
The Hills first met while attending West Virginia State, where they worked together in a chemistry laboratory before marrying shortly after Elaine’s graduation.
University leaders said the couple established the scholarship to help broaden access to education and encourage students to pursue meaningful careers and community service.
“West Virginia State University played such an important role in the Hills’ lives, and this endowed scholarship is a wonderful tribute that they are investing in their alma mater through the creation of this endowed scholarship fund to provide opportunities for future students,” said Trey Jones, vice president for university advancement and president of the WVSU Foundation.
The Hills’ gift supports WVSU’s State of Tomorrow Capital Campaign, an initiative with a goal of raising $25 million to enhance student experiences, strengthen academic programs, expand campus resources and support the university’s long-term mission.
