INSTITUTE, W.Va. – West Virginia State University (WVSU) has established an endowed scholarship in honor of former psychology professor Dr. Paul L. Crawford whose mentorship and teaching inspired generations of students. 

Beginning in 2026, WVSU will start annually awarding the Dr. Paul L. Crawford Scholarships to graduating seniors from Lincoln County High School who maintained at least a 3.25 GPA during high school. Recipients will receive $1,200 per year for four years. The scholarship endowment will eventually support scholarship awards to four students a year. 

Crawford, who passed away in 2002, began his academic journey after serving in World War II, taking advantage of the GI Bill to pursue higher education. In 1967, he became the first person to earn a doctorate degree in psychology from Ohio University. He went on to serve as a Professor and Chair of the Psychology Department at WVSU for 20 years impacting thousands of students’ lives.

The endowed scholarship was made possible by the generous contribution of a donor who wishes to remain anonymous. 

The contribution establishing the Dr. Paul L. Crawford Scholarships is part of the State of Tomorrow Capital Campaign, which seeks to raise $25 million to elevate student experiences, strengthen academic programs, expand campus resources, and sustain WVSU’s legacy as a vital partner in West Virginia’s growth.

For more information about the State of Tomorrow Campaign and how to contribute visit www.wvstateu.edu/stateoftomorrow.

Follow West Virginia State University on Facebook, Instagram @wvsu_official, and X  @WVStateU.

– WVSU –