David Hendrickson Honored as WVU’s “Most Loyal”

David Hendrickson Honored as WVU's "Most Loyal"

For more than four decades, David Hendrickson has given back to West Virginia University. That dedication is now being formally recognized. We are proud to announce that David has been named WVU’s 2025 Most Loyal West Virginian. This honor celebrates his long-standing commitment to both the University and the state.

For Hendrickson, being a Mountaineer has never been just about earning a degree. It has been a lifelong connection. His energy, enthusiasm, and generosity have left a mark on the campus. Plus, his work has enhanced the lives of students, colleagues, and alumni throughout the years.

“I’ve spent my whole life attempting to help this state, the University and the people of both,” said Hendrickson. “This is an award I truly don’t deserve nor expected, but a tremendous honor. I will always try to represent the spirit of loyalty and giving that embodies our state.”

Hendrickson is a two-time graduate and former student body president. He has been involved in shaping the University community. Over the years, he has served as chair of the Alumni Association Board.

Also, David presided as a trustee of the Loyalty Permanent Endowment Fund, which is WVU’s oldest scholarship fund. With these roles, he has helped guide scholarship programs and support student initiatives. David has made sure that future Mountaineers have access to opportunities that once shaped his own path.

That involvement shows a rare combination of leadership and humility. In turn, he has inspired others to give back in meaningful ways.

Along with his leadership positions, Hendrickson also shares his professional experience with students. He serves as an instructor at both the WVU College of Law and the John Chambers College of Business and Economics. In these roles, David mentors the next generation of lawyers, business leaders, and community-minded professionals.

By sharing his knowledge, he helps students understand the importance of responsibility, ethics, and giving back. Many of his former students have credited his guidance as a defining influence in their careers and personal growth.

Hendrickson’s influence is felt across the University. He has been a longtime supporter of WVU Athletics, the Alumni Association, and the College of Creative Arts and Media, including efforts to enhance the Pride Practice Facility.

His contributions reflect an investment in the people and programs that make WVU a community. This is not the only honor from the University. In 2004, he was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus. Decades later, his advocacy and support remain as strong as ever.

“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Dave for nearly thirty years, beginning with his generosity at my charity golf tournament for my disease then becoming my friend and employer,” said Eric Arnold, attorney at Hendrickson & Long and president of the WVU Alumni Chapter of the Greater Kanawha-Charleston Area. “Higher education, more so than ever today, is only as impactful as what our society puts into it. Dave embodies financial, physical, emotional and professional charity when it comes to collegiate learning, this state and the practice of law.”

This year’s Most Loyal honor is not given lightly. Recipients are chosen for their commitment to WVU’s ideals through professional and civic engagement, service, leadership, and their dedication to the West Virginia community. Hendrickson exemplifies all of these qualities, with his professional achievement, a sense of loyalty, and service.

David Hendrickson, along with the other 2025 “Most Loyal” honorees, will be celebrated during halftime at the WVU football game against Colorado on Nov. 8.

His lifelong commitment is one that will shape people, programs, and the Mountaineer community for generations to come.

At Hendrickson & Long, PLLC, we send a heartfelt congratulations to David on this tremendous honor.