By ROBERT A. DEFRANK

WEST LIBERTY – Betsy Delk found her calling lending assistance to students as director of the West Liberty University Foundation.

Delk is responsible for raising, managing and stewarding private funds to support and strengthen West Liberty University and provide opportunities for WLU students.

“My staff and I work closely with Dr. (Tim) Borchers, the university’s president, and the members of his cabinet and college deans to prioritize campus needs and align them with donors. The WLU Foundation manages over 300 scholarship and program funds which support our students, faculty and staff.”

She is a member of the Wheeling Symphony Auxiliary, a Wheeling Symphony Emeritus board member, former member of the Viennese Winter Ball Committee, and Junior League of Wheeling sustaining member.

She is married to David Delk with three daughters, Abbey, Emma and Merritt. They reside in Wheeling with their miniature goldendoodle “Kermit the Dog.”

Delk advises young women interested in her field not to be afraid to ask questions or ask for help.

“I was not a young person when I became involved in development work, and I have appreciated the support of local contacts who have been doing this type of work longer than I have. When I need ideas or a solution to a problem, it’s nice to know that I can ‘phone a friend’ for advice. Even though we are competitors in some ways, I have found that the heads of other nonprofits are always happy to help.”

She learned some valuable lessons in her career, particularly the importance of direct communication.

“Over the years I have learned that picking up the phone is the best way to handle a difficult situation. Sometimes email or a letter would be easier, but talking to someone directly is the best way to gather information and gain mutual understanding. You can always follow with the email later. Also, a handwritten note or card goes a long way — especially when so much is digital these days.”

Delk sees the role of women evolving in her field and the Ohio Valley.

“Many of the nonprofit organizations in the Ohio Valley are led by women, so I think women are at the forefront of this field locally. To be successful in the role of a fundraiser, you have to be organized, able to build relationships and passionate about your mission and work. Women in the Ohio Valley are definitely equipped with these qualities and excelling in their roles.”

She recalled the moment when she learned this was her calling.

“I became involved in development work after practicing law and being out of the workforce for several years. Legal work is both challenging and rewarding, but connecting your work to a mission is particularly fulfilling. I have an ‘aha’ moment every time I meet a student at West Liberty University who benefits from a foundation scholarship. Knowing that our work is helping a young person pursue his or her own dreams is a pretty great feeling.”

She sees many bright spots in the Ohio Valley.

“The Ohio Valley definitely has that ‘small town’ feel, and it’s not uncommon to know community leaders and business people from other parts of life. Fundraising is very driven by relationships, so it always helps to have connective threads in the community whether it be through your child’s school, your weekly yoga class or the local coffee shop. The more you know and know about a person, the easier it is to invite them to be a part of your mission.”

She lives by this motto: “A sense of humor goes a long way.”

“Most situations can be improved by a smile, or better yet laughter.”