Bridgeport resident and former city business owner Dr. Bob "Coach" Wanker was recently honored at halftime of West Virginia University's football game with BYU.

 

Each year during Mountaineer Week, WVU recognizes a select group of Mountaineers who go above and beyond to positively impact the lives of others and make the University a special place. It is part of the school's annual "Most Loyal" selections. Wanker was named the the "Most Loyal West Virginian."

 

Three others were also honored during the event. Most Loyal Alumni Mountaineer went to Grafton's Chad Proudfoot. Most Loyal Faculty, Professional Staff went to Dr. Paula Jo Meyer-Stout. Most Loyal Staff Mountaineer recipient was Laurie Pollock 

 

Here is what the pre-event press release said about Wanker:

 

"Anyone who has walked the halls of the WVU School of Dentistry over the last half-century has likely seen Bridgeport's Dr. Bob “Coach” Wanker, a dedicated alumnus and member of the school’s faculty. Wanker previously served as the School of Dentistry’s assistant dean of student and alumni affairs and has been a critical resource in connecting students with alumni over his tenure.

 

"Wanker has shared his Mountain State dentistry knowledge beyond the classroom, authoring books on the history of the WVU School of Dentistry and the West Virginia Dental Association. In addition to his efforts to educate students and others, Wanker has provided significant funds to help renovate the School of Dentistry, allowing his loyalty to his University to last long after his tenure concludes."

 

According to officials from WVU, Dr. Wanker raised his children in Bridgeport and currently resides in Bridgeport with his wife Rosemary. He was a past owner of Bridgeport Family Dentistry.

 

Editor's Note: Pictured, from left, Bob Wanker, Laurie Erickson, Gordon Gee, Laurie Pollock, Tim Bolling, Paula Jo Meyer-Stout, and Chad Proudfoot.