SENATE RESOLUTION 30
(By Senator Queen)
[Introduced March 13, 2025]
Recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.
Whereas, In 1944 the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation was established by Michael Late Benedum, born and raised in Bridgeport, WV, and his wife, Sarah Lantz Benedum born and raised in Blacksville, WV; and
Whereas, The Foundation was named for the couple’s son, Claude Worthington Benedum, who died at the age of 20 from the 1918 flu epidemic while working for the United States Army; and
Whereas, The Foundation is the largest philanthropic foundation contributing primarily to West Virginia organizations and was established for the express purpose of grantmaking for worthy causes and events focused on West Virginia and Pittsburgh, the native and adopted homes of Mr. & Mrs. Benedum; and
Whereas, Through its leadership and staff, the Foundation has successfully carried out this mission for 80 years; and
Whereas, The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has focused its efforts on the three noteworthy program areas to include Community & Economic Development, Education, and Health; and
Whereas, Since 2001, the Foundation has expanded its mission to include funding for Entrepreneurship as a Strategic Initiative; and
Whereas, The Foundation has invested millions of dollars in funding in West Virginia for rural economic development and entrepreneurship; and
Whereas, The Foundation was instrumental in the establishment and advancement of the West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem through substantial investment and professional support; and
Whereas, The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation continues to play a critical leadership role in the development of entrepreneurship and economic development throughout West Virginia; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the West Virginia State Senate recognizes the tremendous impact that the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has had throughout West Virginia with the sincere hope that the Foundation continues its mission and good works throughout West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the mission of the Foundation has been instrumental in community and economic development since its inception in 1944, by the late Michael and Sarah Benedum; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate representative of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.