FAIRMONT, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Kenny and Teresa Wooddell have established an endowed scholarship at Fairmont State University, giving back in gratitude and with a desire to create a legacy that will support students for generations to come.
Through a gift to the Fairmont State Foundation, the couple created the Kenny & Teresa Wooddell Scholarship, which will provide financial support to Fairmont State students.
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“We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Wooddell for their generous support of Fairmont State University students. Their investment is a powerful affirmation of the value of accessible education and the transformative impact it can have,” said Fairmont State University President Mike Davis.
“Scholarships such as these are instrumental in improving student retention and degree completion, helping to ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of academic success. Fairmont State is a Great Place to Learn, and it is through the commitment of donors like the Wooddells that we are able to uphold that vision for more students. Their contribution will have a lasting influence on the lives of those they support and on the future of our institution.”
Born and raised in West Virginia, Mr. Wooddell attended Upshur County schools before earning a business degree from Fairmont State in 1971.
Though he and Teresa now live in Florida, they say West Virginia is still home in spirit.
“Teresa and I both grew up in families that didn’t have a lot,” Mr. Wooddell said. “One morning I woke up and thought if we can help somebody from a background like ours finish college, this is what we want to do.”
Mr. Wooddell explained that while he never made “big money,” he lived responsibly and invested wisely.
“A good friend once told me, if you make $25,000 and save $5,000, you’ll have something someday. But if you make $250,000 and spend $275,000, you’ll be broke. That stuck with me.”
After serving in the Army during the Vietnam era, Mr. Wooddell returned home and worked in a coal mine before starting a lawn care business when the mine closed. That business turned into a 26-year career.
“My business degree helped me figure out how to run the business side of things – taxes, expenses, and planning. I didn’t need a degree to cut grass, but it helped me grow something stable.”
Eventually, Mr. Wooddell sold the business to his nephew and fulfilled a childhood dream of living in Florida during the winters. By 2013, the Wooddells became full-time Florida residents, though their West Virginia roots continue to shape their values.
The couple has also arranged a planned gift to continue helping students into the future. “When I started college, they told us only one in four of us would finish. I don’t know if that’s still the case, but I hope this helps somebody stay the course and complete a degree. That’s what I care about.”
Fairmont State Foundation Director of Development Marissa Mauro praised the Wooddells’ generosity.
“Mr. and Mrs. Wooddells’ gift reflects a profound commitment to education and community. Their story shows that anyone with a vision, regardless of how they started, can leave a lasting impact. Their legacy will support Fairmont State students for decades to come, and we are honored to help fulfill their vision.”
Mr. Wooddell said he hopes their story inspires others. “If this inspires another couple to do something similar, it would all be worth it.”
The Wooddells, who have been together for more than 40 years, see the scholarship as their way of leaving something lasting. “For some people, their kids are their legacy. This scholarship is ours.”
