Jim Dunn Run – Working Together to Empower Others

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” —Henry Ford

Jim Dunn was well-known and admired among the Morgantown community. Jim was a manager for several local restaurants, a Special Olympics coach, a volunteer with many youth sports programs, and a caring husband, father, brother, and dear friend to many. Anyone who knew Jim still speaks of his compassion, gratitude and commitment to empower and serve others.

A 1972 graduate of the College of Business and Economics of West Virginia University, Jim came to Morgantown from Rochester, Pennsylvania on a full athletic scholarship. He was a sprinter on WVU’s storied men’s track and field team under the leadership of the late Coach Stan Romanoski.

After his sudden death in May of 2007, his wife Darlene wanted to do something special in memory of her husband. Fueled with Jim’s passion for his sport and serving others, the Jim Dunn Memorial Scholarship was founded to support West Virginia high school senior athletes who plan to participate in collegiate track and field and/or cross country programs.

Currently, the scholarship is worth $1,000 and can be used for books, housing, tuition, etc. Because of the generosity from our growing and caring community and the patrons of the annual Jim Dunn Memorial Scholarship Twilight 5-miler (Jim Dunn Run), we have awarded 20 scholarships to date.

In 2013, we expanded our outreach to include SteppingStones of Monongalia County as a co-beneficiary and co-supporter of our annual event. SteppingStones provides year-round recreation for children and adults with disabilities. Funds raised from this year’s Jim Dunn Run will be used to further support and develop physical activity programs, including Miracle League Baseball, Miracle League Golf, Swimming, Basketball and other activities.

We’re thankful for the support of our sponsors, volunteers and patrons who believe in our mission. As you read through our site, we hope you will be inspired to join us, too. There are many ways to help us empower others through education, sport and recreation in memory of our friend Jim Dunn!