UC mourns passing of former First Lady Dr. Janet Welch

CHARLESTON, WV — The University of Charleston is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Janet Welch, who faithfully served as the institution’s First Lady from 1989 until 2018.

During nearly three decades in this role, Dr. Welch became a beloved presence across the UC campus and the Charleston community. She was a devoted supporter of the thousands of students who called UC their home.

“Sarah and I have so many memories with Janet, first as students, then as employees, and finally as dear friends,” said UC Board of Trustees member Ben Beakes, UC Class of 2002, who also worked at the University from 2009 through 2014. “She was always doggedly focused on presenting the University of Charleston in a way its students could be proud. Ed and Janet treated UC students like their own children, and Sarah and I will never forget her. Our prayers are with Dr. Welch, as together they were truly a force.”

“Janet brought a unique sense of style and grace to our campus,” UC Board of Trustees member Fonda Elliot said. “From the Erma Byrd Gallery to her thoughtful touches in campus design, she uplifted the arts and helped make UC the beautiful, welcoming place it is today. She will always be remembered for the warmth and care she shared with everyone she met.”

A native of Sissonville, West Virginia, Dr. Welch played a vital role in shaping the look and feel of the UC campus. She worked tirelessly on color schemes, design layouts, and interior enhancements, while filling hallways, offices, and the library with art.

Her most enduring legacy is the creation of the Erma Byrd West Virginia Women Artists Gallery, the only gallery of its kind in the United States, which has earned acclaim for celebrating the work of women artists from across the state.

She was also a very familiar face at Golden Eagle sporting event and was affectionately recognized by the volleyball team as the program’s “seventh woman” for her constant presence at home matches. She was inducted into the University of Charleston Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.

“The entire UC community sends our thoughts and prayers to Emeritus President Ed Welch and his family and friends,” UC President Marty Roth and his wife Lynn shared. “Drs. Janet and Ed Welch were driving forces behind so many UC innovations and accomplishments.  The welcoming UC culture we now take for granted was stewarded by Janet and Ed for decades.”

In her role as the University’s campus hostess, Dr. Welch welcomed thousands of guests to athletic events, student receptions, Tower Room dinners, and countless other gatherings.

The community is invited to attend a memorial service and reception honoring Dr. Welch on Thursday at 5 p.m. in the Rotunda of the University of Charleston. We ask that you keep her family, including her husband for former President, Dr. Ed Welch, in your prayers during this time.

You can read Dr. Welch’s obituary here: https://barlowbonsall.com/obituaries/dr-janet-gail-boggess-welch/