Grace Griffin

Grace M. Griffin was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in 2025. She was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1988.

Born in Waterloo, Wisconsin, in 1886, Griffin earned her A.B. from the University of Wisconsin before joining West Virginia University in 1923. She succeeded Sophie W. Brunhoff and was appointed Director of Physical Training for Women, and later became the Director of the Women’s Service Program and Chair of the Department of Physical Education for Women.

Griffin played a central role in advancing physical education for women at WVU. In 1926, the University adopted a two-year physical education requirement for women. Despite limited facilities, enrollment and interest in women’s physical education continued to grow. Griffin led efforts to secure legislative approval for a dedicated women’s physical education building, which was approved and constructed shortly thereafter. She expanded opportunities for women and helped shape the early identity of the School. Alongside Director of Athletics Harry Stansbury and President John Roscoe Turner, she helped assemble the School’s first group of faculty members in 1928.

Griffin’s leadership was recognized both within the University and on a national level. She served as president of the Midwest District of AAHPERD from 1941 to 1942 and provided professional guidance throughout the state. During World War II, she served as acting dean of the School in 1945–46 while Dean Thompson was on leave for military service. She also helped organize the University’s first telegraphic swim meets in the 1930s.

Griffin retired in 1957. She passed away on December 6, 1973.