Neil Bolyard, a long-time innovative, student-centered leader who served West Virginia University for more than three decades, died Tuesday, Oct. 12, at 89.
A Fellowsville native, Bolyard began his tenure at the University as the coordinator of scholarships and veteran affairs, and in 1969, he was named the director of financial aid, a position he served in until his retirement in 1997.
“As we celebrate Financial Aid Day, Neil will be fondly remembered today, and always, for his unwavering commitment to students and their success and contributions to the profession,” said Candi Frazier, senior associate director of student financial services. “He was a pioneer, leader and mentor in his community and profession who worked tirelessly to help students achieve their dreams of attending college.”
In 1988, Bolyard played an integral role in developing the Scholars Program at WVU, and after his retirement, he returned to WVU in a part-time capacity as an assistant to the director of admissions and records where he was responsible for establishing academic eligibility for NCAA student-athletes.
He was extensively active in leadership at the state, regional and national levels. Bolyard served as the former president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and West Virginia ASFAA, and throughout the years, he served as a member of many organizations and advisory committees in higher education, including the College Entrance Examination Board, U.S. Office of Education and Student Loan Marketing Association Sallie Mae.
In honor of his steadfast dedication, the West Virginia ASFAA created the Neil E. Bolyard Meritorious Service Award; an award bestowed to those who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to the state association and financial aid profession.
He is also a charter member of the Student Life Hall of Fame, recipient of the 2018 David W. Jacobs Lifetime Service Award and was honored as the Most Loyal Staff Mountaineer during Mountaineer Week in 2002.
Bolyard earned his bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in counseling from WVU.
“I have so many great memories serving as a work-study student under Neil,” Frazier said. “But my two fondest memories of him are reaching for his wallet and pulling out money to help a student buy food and books because their loan check was late and the full-length couch in his office and change of clothes hanging on the back of his door - a place where he spent many late nights working on student files.”
“He truly is ‘The Father of Financial Aid at WVU,’” Frazier added.
Preceded in death by his wife, Jerrie, he is survived by his daughter, Lisa Hassen, and granddaughter, Lauryl Hassen, and members of their family. He is also survived by a long-time companion, Irene Liberatore, and many members of her family.
Learn more about Bolyard’s life, honoring him and his memorial service.