Ryan Patrick Gosa Fund

TYPE OF FUND:  Donor Advised                             ESTABLISHED:  January 2016

PURPOSE:  Providing educational opportunities in the liberal arts.

GEOGRAPHIC AREA SERVED:  Tucker County, WV

DISTRIBUTION:  On the recommendation of the donors and final approval by the Grants Committee and Board of Directors of TCF.

VARIANCE POWER:  If, in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund.

FUNDING:  Initial funding provided by Ryan’s parents James (Jake) and Patricia Gosa.  For several years prior to establishing the endowment, Jake and Pat, along with Ryan’s siblings and his nieces and nephews, awarded a pass-through scholarship in Ryan’s memory.

BACKGROUND:  The Ryan Patrick Gosa Fund was established to celebrate his life as well as his love of writing, the arts, and athletics. From an early age, Ryan displayed an intense interest in reading and learning.

The Gosa family lived in Winchester, Va., but frequented Canaan Valley throughout the late 80’s and 90’s. Ryan was the youngest son of Jake and Pat Gosa. The family owned a vacation home at Black Bear Woods and devoted much time and energy to the Junior Ski Racing program. Jake Sr. served as president, Jake ll coached, and his sister Jessica along with Ryan, enjoyed much success as racers. Their mother Pat, did all of the associated volunteer work from timing to recording scores.

Ryan moved on to high school at Burke Mountain Academy to pursue skiing, but over time developed his academic interests. During his senior year he was able to spend a semester abroad to study creative writing and Shakespeare. After graduating from Burke, he attended Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, NY, where he graduated with distinction.

Ryan was a gentle soul with a sharp and entertaining wit. He is remembered by his loving family and his many friends across the country.