Albert Blatnik

Albert Blatnik was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2007.

A native of Bridgeport, W.Va., Blatnik earned a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from West Liberty State College and a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He later completed a doctorate in health and physical education at West Virginia University during a sabbatical in 1967–68.

Blatnik's academic career was centered at West Liberty College, where he served from 1957 to his retirement in 1986. He taught physical education, coached athletics, and held administrative positions, including Director of the School of Health and Physical Education and Athletic Director beginning in 1964. His leadership extended beyond the campus as he served on the WVIAC Board of Athletic Directors and represented West Liberty on the State Faculty Committee Advisory Council to the WVU Board of Regents.

Blatnik also worked with the United Way, the National Cursillo Movement, and participated in local and national Democratic political activities. He served as campaign manager for his wife, Senator Thais Blatnik, and was an alternate delegate to three National Democratic Conventions.

His honors include induction into the Ohio Valley Athletic Hall of Fame, the West Liberty State College Hall of Fame, and selection as West Liberty Professor of the Year. The Health and Physical Education building at West Liberty bears his name.

Blatnik passed away in 2011.