WVU Libraries and the WVRHC have a vision to build upon and sustain three unique historic collections. 

With the addition of a permanent, full-time archivist for the West Virginia Feminist Activist and Women’s History collections, the WVU University Archives and a sustaining operations fund for the William A. Neal Museum of the Health Sciences, we will ensure these significant and irreplaceable collections are:

• identified, preserved and made accessible to the research community;
• available for instruction in WVU and K-12 courses and
• highlighted in exhibits and programs that educate future generations. 

The right time, the right place

Women’s history continues to be made every day in West Virginia. And yet, many more stories are being silenced with the passage of time and lack of resources to identify and acquire collections. One of those stories was that of the Artemis Sisters, a feminist collective whose local social and political activism are still imbedded in our community.

Today, materials like these, and from many others including creatives, tradeswomen, educators, coal miners, civic leaders and advocacy groups are growing in our collection. The work has been recognized with awards and funding from national archival groups. This initiative enhances WVU’s longstanding commitment to women through the Women and Gender Studies Program, Women’s Leadership Institute, Women in Science and Health and the WVU Foundation’s Women of WVU. 

A Mountaineer Spirit for the Next Generation

WVU has been making history for 157 years. However, unlike most R1 universities, we have never had a dedicated University archivist to ensure the vast amount of official university archival records are preserved for posterity. The material extends from major research accomplishments to athletics, departmental histories, administrative and student organization records to public performances and events. Documenting the legacy of a university requires a continuous, holistic approach at a level the WVRHC has never had the staff to be able to accomplish on a regular basis. That can change with a University archivist position solely dedicated to this work.   

Neal Museum Highlights WV Medical Achievements

Ten years ago, a WVU-centered medical museum on the Health Sciences campus was a dream nurtured by accomplished pediatric cardiologist Dr. Bill Neal. Neal devoted his time and treasure to telling the story of the WVU School of Medicine and the groundbreaking achievements of West Virginians.

Today the William A. Neal Museum of the Health Sciences makes a statement at the WVU Health Sciences Center and, with gratitude to Neal and his generous family, we have a curator in place to continue the work. It is our commitment to grow the funds for ongoing operations in perpetuity.

The Neal Museum and archivist positions open the door to the vital work and public exposure necessary to save and manage primary source and museum collections, and especially for bringing West Virginia and WVU accomplishments to the national stage. Your donation to our campaign can make a difference! 

Visit library.wvu.edu/give for future updates and information on ways to give.