Mary Anne Ketelsen, standing, is pictured with her mother, Mary “Mickey” Welch. (Photo Provided)

HUNTINGTON — The Marshall University Foundation has received a $100,000 gift from Mary Anne Ketelsen to establish the Mary “Mickey” Welch Scholarship, aimed at supporting students enrolled in career skills programs at the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center.

According to a release from the foundation, the scholarship honors Ketelsen’s mother, Welch, a West Virginia entrepreneur known for her work in traditionally male-dominated industries. Welch owned several businesses, including Welch Oil & Gas, Welch Music and Classic Rope. She is recognized as the first woman in West Virginia to drill an oil well.

The scholarship will be available to full-time students pursuing training in machinist technology, welding technology or systems maintenance, automation and robotics technology. The award is renewable for up to four years, or eight semesters, for students who remain in good academic standing.

“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 2019, was active in philanthropy and community service, supporting youth and education throughout her career.

Selection of the scholarship recipient will be overseen by the university’s vice president of economic and workforce development, or their designee, in coordination with the Office of Student Financial Assistance.