Linda and Don Brodie have made a significant mark at West Virginia University (WVU) by donating $5 million to create a new deanship at the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. This generous gift aims to enhance leadership and support for the university’s largest academic unit.
Don Brodie, a WVU alumnus, says that his educational journey at WVU sparked his passion for science. He graduated with a degree in chemistry in 1969, a time when the university’s out-of-state tuition was affordable, making it an ideal choice for him. He remembers the encouragement he received from his professors, which helped shape his innovative spirit.
The new Linda and Don Brodie Deanship will provide crucial funding and support for over 5,000 students enrolled in more than 60 programs at the Eberly College. “This gift is an investment in the future,” noted WVU President Michael T. Benson. His statement reflects the broader belief that investing in education creates lasting change.
Interestingly, this donation comes at a pivotal time. Longtime Dean Gregory Dunaway will step down, making way for new leadership. The search for a new dean is underway, led by Greenwood Asher & Associates.
Don and Linda Brodie have an entrepreneurial background. They started the Purolite Company from their basement in 1981. With Don’s scientific insights and Linda’s administrative experience, the company became a global leader in manufacturing products for various industries, including pharmaceuticals and water treatment.
The Brodies have also focused on philanthropy, establishing the Don and Linda Brodie Family Foundation. Their giving is rooted in their values of tradition and integrity, with a strong belief in education as a key to opportunity. They have previously funded initiatives within the Eberly College, supporting chemistry students and faculty engaged in innovative research.
“Education is the most powerful investment we can make,” they say, emphasizing their commitment to helping future generations succeed. Their belief in education’s transformative potential is echoed by statistics: studies show that a college degree can significantly increase an individual’s earning potential over a lifetime, making such contributions even more impactful.
The Brodies are actively involved with WVU, with Don serving on the Eberly Advisory Committee. He has been recognized as an esteemed member of the Academy of Distinguished Alumni and recently received an honorary Doctor of Science degree.
Residing in Boca Raton, Florida, the Brodies cherish family life with their three children and five grandchildren. Their dedication to education and community continues to resonate, showing how one act of generosity can shape the future for many.
The Brodie gift was facilitated through the WVU Foundation, which manages private donations for the university.
This gesture is not just a financial boost but a beacon of hope for students and faculty alike, inspiring them to reach new heights in academic excellence and innovation.
