Giving
Dr. and Mrs. S. William Goff established two funds at the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation. Dr. Goff, a local physician, was a long-time friend and supporter of the Foundation. He served on the Foundation's original Board of Governors as the appointee of the Academy of Medicine. Dr. Goff died in 2007.
Born in Parkersburg and Ohio educated, Dr. S. William Goff met his wife, “Martie,” at the University of Akron. After Case Western Reserve Medical School graduation, he was a surgeon during World War II in occupied Japan, then later Chief of Surgery and President of Staff at Camden Clark and St. Josephs Hospitals. Mrs. Goff enjoyed Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as Regent for two terms.
When Dr. Goff entered medical school during the Depression, he was assisted with a $100 scholarship prize provided by a physician. In appreciation for this support, and as a reflection of his desire to give back to the community, Dr. Goff and his wife created the Permanent Educational Fund to provide support to area students
entering or currently in medical school. Recipients must have attended high school in Wood County and are selected on the basis of merit and need.
"This scholarship fund has been an expression of my thankfulness in being able to do something for my community," said Dr. Goff. "When you give to the Community
Foundation you're giving to an organization that is permanent. Your wishes will be carried out, and it is this that has been a big influence on me and others who have contributed."
The second fund created by the Goffs, the Memorial Fund, provides an ongoing source of support to charitable organizations that were of importance to Dr. and Mrs. Goff during their lifetimes.