The Parkersburg Area Community Foundation (PACF) proudly announces the creation of a new endowment fund dedicated to celebrating the spirit of Larry Maxwell, affectionately known as “Mad Max.” The new “Mad Max” Spirit Fund is designed to foster school spirit and pride at Parkersburg South High School, continuing Maxwell’s more than 40-year mission.
Maxwell, a 1965 graduate of Parkersburg High School, taught English at Parkersburg South High School (PSHS) for 37 years, taught at Mountain State College for 22 years, worked as the PSHS assistant soccer coach for 7 years, lead the PSHS Rat Pack Spirit Group, served as an unofficial Patriot mascot for many years, and is celebrated for his dedication and commitment to the students of PSHS. During his nearly 40-year teaching career, Maxwell inspired countless students with his unwavering enthusiasm, leaving a lasting mark on the school and its community.
In honor of his contributions, Maxwell’s friends and family have joined together to form the “Mad Max” Spirit Fund with the PACF which will provide annual distributions to PSHS to support initiatives that enhance school spirit and foster a strong sense of pride among students. The fund aims to:
- Engage students in diverse activities and events that promote school unity.
- Strengthen students' connection to Parkersburg South High School.
- Develop student ambassadors who represent and advocate for the school and its values.
- Cultivate a lasting sense of pride in the students’ educational journey.
It is important to note that the “Mad Max” Spirit Fund is specifically intended to support these non-athletic initiatives. The Fund will not be used to support athletic programs or student participation in athletics, nor will it be allocated for scholarships or monetary prizes for students or alumni.
"I’m deeply humbled by my friends, family, and community for coming together to establish this endowment fund in my honor," said Maxwell. "This Fund is designed to support our students and to help them build on the enthusiasm and energy I have for PSHS. My hope is that PSHS remains a pillar of our community, with its students growing in excitement and pride thanks to the energy I’ve sparked with my years of dedication.”
The PACF is honored to administer this fund and to help continue Larry Maxwell’s legacy of inspiring and nurturing the future leaders of our community.
To contribute to the enduring success of the “Mad Max” Spirit Fund, donations can be mailed by check, payable to PACF, with the fund name on the memo line, to: PACF, PO Box 1762, Parkersburg, WV, 26102. Online donations are also accepted. For more information or to discuss other giving options, please contact Julie Posey, PACF’s Senior Development and Stewardship Officer, at 304-428-4438.
