The legacy of a pioneering West Virginia businesswoman will live on through students enrolled in the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center’s (MAMC) career skills programs thanks to a $100,000 donation from her daughter to create the Mary “Mickey” Welch Scholarship.
The Marshall University Foundation announced the gift earlier this month establishing the scholarship, endowed through the generosity of Welch’s daughter, Mary Anne Ketelsen.
Welch was a pioneering entrepreneur and philanthropist who broke barriers in male-dominated industries. As the owner of multiple businesses, including Welch Oil & Gas, Welch Music and Classic Rope, she became the first woman in West Virginia to drill an oil well. Her success and leadership served as an inspiration to women entering the trades sector and business world.
Recipients of the scholarship will be full-time students enrolled in MAMC’s career skills programs, which include Machinist Technology, Welding Technology and SMART (Systems Maintenance, Automation and Robotics Technology).
“We’re incredibly thankful to Mary Anne for this generous gift, which will directly support students in our trade programs,” said Nico Karagosian, president and CEO of the Marshall University Foundation. “The scholarship will provide hands-on training and real opportunities to prepare our students for these in-demand careers.”
Welch, who died in August 2019, was deeply committed to giving back, supporting numerous nonprofits and serving on multiple community service boards.
“She was especially passionate about helping young people access education and opportunity, often directing her philanthropy toward hands-on learning and support for underserved youth,” Ketelsen said. “This scholarship honors her legacy by supporting students pursuing careers in the trades — fields she championed through her work and example.”
The award will be renewable up to four years, or eight semesters, if recipients maintain good academic standing. Marshall’s vice president of economic and workforce development, or their designee, will select the recipient and renew the award in cooperation with the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
“We are so honored to have Mary Anne’s support, friendship and commitment to helping students chart their path for in-demand, well-paying advanced manufacturing careers,” said MAMC Director Derek Scarbro.
For information regarding the Mary “Mickey” Welch Scholarship, please contact Marshall University’s Office of Student Financial Assistance at 304-696-3162.
July 25, 2025
