Student leaders with goals to advance and improve West Virginia can apply for the 2026 Hazel Ruby McQuain Graduate Scholarship through the WVU Office of Graduate Education and Life. (WVU Foundation Photo/Garrett Cullen)
Aspiring leaders with an affinity for West Virginia may be eligible for the Hazel Ruby McQuain Graduate Scholarship, named for the difference-maker and philanthropist whose generosity has made a lasting impression in the Mountain State.
The West Virginia University Office of Graduate Education and Life awards the scholarship to demonstrated public servants with a desire to improve the lives of West Virginians.
The $20,000 annual scholarship is designated for outstanding students pursuing a graduate degree from a higher education institution in West Virginia or an accredited school within the United States.
Eligible applicants must:
- Exemplify the legacy of Hazel Ruby McQuain’s commitment to serving the people of West Virginia.
- Have a record of public service and demonstrate leadership qualities.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Be a West Virginia resident, have significant ties to the state, or be dedicated to bettering the lives of West Virginians.
- Be accepted to an on-campus, full-time graduate degree program at a regionally accredited higher education institution within the United States.
Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements must provide a graduate program acceptance letter, resume or curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
Applications must be completed and submitted online by Sunday, March 15, at 11:59 p.m.
McQuain was devoted to community development in Morgantown and the surrounding areas. She and her husband, John Wesley Ruby, were involved in numerous business endeavors, including agriculture, mining, road paving, poultry processing, feed mills and raising racehorses.
Prior to her passing in 2002 at age 93, McQuain made many charitable donations to WVU establishing programs, recreational facilities, university chairs and more. Her generous $8 million gift provided support for the construction of WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, named in honor of her late husband.
Her philanthropic tradition continues to make a difference at WVU and beyond through the Hazel Ruby McQuain Charitable Trust.
Questions about the Hazel Ruby McQuain Graduate Scholarship can be directed to HRMgraduatescholarship@mail.wvu.edu.
Gifts for scholarships are made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University and its affiliated entities.