Margaret A. Bahnsen

Margaret M. Bahnsen was inducted into the 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 1998 and was named the College’s Outstanding Alumna in 2006.

A native of New Manchester, W.Va., Bahnsen graduated from WVU in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree in recreation from the School of Physical Education. She later earned a master’s degree in psychology counseling from Old Dominion University before launching a distinguished military career.

Throughout her Army service, Bahnsen often broke new ground as the highest-ranking woman in her roles. In 1995, she returned to WVU as professor of Military Science—the first alum in University history selected for this position, an appointment made by the Department of the Army. She remained in that role until her retirement.

Committed to youth development and public service, Bahnsen co-founded and chaired the Lincoln Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit focused on cultivating leadership in West Virginia youth. She also served as director of Camp Lincoln, a conservative youth leadership program, and was a keynote speaker at West Virginia Girls State.

Her military accolades include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Meritorious Service Medal, and recognition as an Outstanding Young Woman in America. She also gained national visibility as one of three trailblazers interviewed on CNN for achieving military “firsts,” including her role as the first female Regimental Tactical Officer at West Point.

Bahnsen has served on the CPASS Visiting Committee and on the University of Houston Health Science Center’s Advisory Committee for Project Healthy Outlook on Mammography.