WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University Athletics proudly honored former Director of Athletics James "Jim" Watson on Saturday with the unveiling and dedication of a commemorative plaque inside the Academic, Sports & Recreation Complex (ASRC), a facility widely known across campus as "The House That Jim Built."

Surrounded by family members, former colleagues, and University leadership, Watson was celebrated for his decades of service and transformational leadership that helped shape modern-day West Liberty Athletics. Watson's impact on West Liberty spans more than half a century. Beginning in 1971, he served the University with distinction as a championship-level head baseball coach and athletic trainer before transitioning into a decades-long tenure as Director of Athletics. Under his leadership, the Hilltoppers sustained competitive success, expanded program  offerings, strengthened academic support for student-athletes, and saw significant investment in facilities that elevated the department's profile across the region and beyond.

Constructed during Watson's tenure as Director of Athletics, the ASRC stands as one of the defining landmarks of the Hilltopper campus. The facility elevated competitive opportunities for student-athletes while strengthening the University's connection to alumni, supporters and the greater Ohio Valley community.

Longtime University administrator and close friend Dr. John McCullough shared reflections on Watson's impact. "Since Jim Watson and I started at West Liberty in 1971, I have had the opportunity to witness the countless positive contributions made by him," McCullough said. "From his role as a championship-level Head Baseball Coach to his decades-long role as Athletic Director, Jim has always made 'Quality' the foremost objective in his approach to enhancing the student-athlete experience, to administering all athletic programs, to improving and expanding athletic facilities, and to enriching and supporting sports-related academic programs. Beyond being my great friend, a gentleman and a professional, Jim Watson has earned his reputation as a true West Liberty University icon, with a monumental legacy that has positively impacted thousands of individuals."

Current Director of Athletics Brad Forshey reflected on Watson's legacy during the Ceremony. "The ASRC is more than brick and mortar, it represents belief," Forshey said. "Jim believed West Liberty could dream bigger, compete at the highest level, and provide our student-athletes with facilities that matched their work ethic and ambition. Because of his leadership, generations of Hilltoppers have had a home worthy of their commitment. Today we honor not just a building, but the man whose vision made it possible."

Widely respected across campus and throughout the WVIAC, Mountain East Conference and beyond, Watson is regarded as one of the foundational architects of modern West Liberty Athletics. His steady leadership, commitment to excellence and unwavering belief in student-athletes helped define an era of growth and positioned the Hilltoppers for continued success long after his retirement.

West Liberty University Athletics also extends sincere appreciation to Dr. McCullough for his generosity in sponsoring the commemorative plaque and providing catering for the dedication ceremony, a gesture that reflects his enduring friendship with Watson and continued commitment to the University community.

Saturday's dedication served not only as a celebration of a facility, but as a recognition of the man whose steady leadership, commitment to quality, and enduring friendships helped shape the trajectory of West Liberty University Athletics. 

At West Liberty, the ASRC will forever remain "The House That Jim Built."

The event can be viewed, in its entirety, on Topper Station.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.