Al Ware

Alfred F. Ware was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously a member of the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame (1999) and was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus in 2003.

A native of Rupert, W.Va., Ware was born on May 1, 1927. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University in 1950 and a master’s degree in speech and communications in 1952. While at WVU, he was a member of Delta Tau Delta, served as Cadet Colonel of Army ROTC, captained the men’s varsity debate team, and earned varsity letters in cross country and track.

Ware began his professional career in 1954 in the textile industry, holding executive roles including vice president of Manufacturers Hanover Corporation, director of Manufacturers Hanover Trade Corporation, president of Burlington Industries International Division, and CEO of Mitsubishi-Burlington, Ltd. In 1977, he and his wife, Dee—also a 1952 WVU graduate—founded Amherst International, Inc., later expanding to Amherst Fiber Optics, which marketed fiber optics, optoelectronics, and laser products for telecommunications and cable companies.

Ware served in leadership positions across business and education, including as chair of the Board of Directors of the American School in Japan, chair of the Civic Affairs Committee of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Japan, and a member of the U.S./Japan Trade Council and the United Fund of New York City. He was also a deacon of his local church.

Ware served on the CPASS Visiting Committee and as chair of the college’s Wellness Task Force. He and his wife supported numerous initiatives at WVU through the Ware Family Foundation, including the Ware Distinguished Professorship in Physical Education, the Ware Student-Athlete Scholarships, and the Ware Presidential Scholarship for Monongalia County. They also contributed to the creation of the WVU Gateway Plaza and the Ware Family Alumni Walk at the Erickson Alumni Center. 

His university honors included the Order of Vandalia, the Outstanding Philanthropy Award from the WVU Foundation, and induction into the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni.

Ware passed away on Nov. 3, 2020, at the age of 93.