Mary Kathryne "Kacy" Wiedebusch

Mary Kathryne "Kacy" Widebusch was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. She was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1994.

A native of Clarksburg, W.Va., Wiedebusch earned both her bachelor’s degree (1951) and master’s degree (1974) from West Virginia University. She joined the WVU faculty in 1955 and served for more than 50 years as a teacher, choreographer, and coordinator for the Dance Program, where she became known as the University’s “First Lady of Dance.”

Wiedebusch helped establish the Elizabeth Moore Hall Dance Studio and served as artistic director of the WVU Orchesis Dance Ensemble, producing more than 150 concerts and eight original story ballets. In 1978, she founded the Artistry in Residency Program, bringing dozens of nationally known artists to WVU. She also played a key role in developing the Dance Minor in 2000, the American College Dance Festival Association, and the West Virginia State Dance Festival.

Her numerous honors include Dance Educator of the Year (1992 and 1994), the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award in the School of Physical Education (1991–92), two national awards from the American Dance Festival Association, the Paul “Buck” Martin Alumni Service Award (2006), and the Order of Vandalia (2007), the University’s highest honor. She was also named a “Woman of Distinction” by Alpha Xi Delta and served as a delegate in the Citizen Ambassador Program, where she completed research at the London Contemporary Dance Theatre.

Wiedebusch’s legacy extends beyond campus, with major contributions to outreach, arts advocacy, and community programs. She passed away in 2022.