E. Eugene "Gene" Corum

Gene Corum was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1991 and recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus in 2001.

A native of Huntington, W.Va., Corum was born in 1921 and earned all-state honors in football at Huntington High School. He enrolled at West Virginia University in 1940 and became a standout guard on the Mountaineer football team. His collegiate career was interrupted by 3-plus years of military service during World War II, but he returned to complete his eligibility and serve as team captain in 1947. That season, he blocked a punt that helped WVU defeat rival Pitt for the first time in 19 years. He was also an active student leader, involved in Mountain, Fi Batar Cappar, and Beta Theta Pi.

After earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education in 1948, Corum began his career as a teacher and coach at Point Marion High School. He returned to WVU in 1950 as an assistant football coach and instructor. In 1960, he was named head football coach, becoming the first WVU coach of a major sport to integrate his team by recruiting African American athletes. He led the program for six seasons.

Corum transitioned to a full-time faculty and administrative role in the School of Physical Education, serving as assistant dean and later as acting dean. He also served one year as acting director of athletics and held leadership roles on numerous university committees, including four terms on the University Senate. He played a key role in the planning of Mountaineer Field and the Shell Building.

He was named to WVU’s All-Time Football Team for the 1940s and is a member of both the WVU Sports Hall of Fame and the WVU Athletic Hall of Fame.

Corum passed away on Jan. 2, 2010, at the age of 88.