We are saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Thomas Sidney “Tom” Sloane, born May 21, 1944, who departed this life on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at the age of 79. A lifelong resident of Morgantown, Tom was a son to the late Earl Vance Sloane and Eleanor Jones Sloane.
He leaves to mourn: his cousins, Colleen (James) Roberts and Kathy (Dick) Johnson, from Morgantown, Beverly Pollock and family, of Michigan, along with Gillian, of Wales. He will also be fondly remembered by his close friends, Kim Mosby, of Morgantown, Fred Bartimoccia and family, from Vienna, W.Va., Freda and Bill McDilda, Pat and Larry Lutsie and his special Zen Clay family, all from Morgantown.
Dr. Sloane was an admired figure and dedicated administrator at his dear alma mater, West Virginia University (WVU), a place he served passionately for over four decades. His tireless effort and dedication significantly shaped and enhanced the academic experience for countless students.
Tom, first in his family to attend college, developed deep ties with WVU, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English and joined the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity as a staff member later in life and served several years as their advisor. His love for knowledge and teaching led him to eventually instruct English at WVU for an impressive seven years. He further broadened his education by attaining a doctorate in student personnel from The Ohio State University.
Dr. Sloane’s commendable career at WVU saw him don numerous significant roles in the Division of Student Life. Best remembered as the senior associate dean of students for 29 years, Tom left substantial footprints as the executive director of international student life and global services.
With an empathetic approach and continuous effort, Tom was pivotal in nurturing an inclusive campus environment, promoting diversity and advocating for comprehensive learning. His contributions extended to greatly improve the university experience for African-American students and transform the Greek Life culture.
Aside from his administrative roles, Tom’s genuine affection for his students radiated through his active championing of their welfare. His devotion to mentorship and student engagement made him an extraordinary role model. His vision facilitated an impressive 54% surge in the international student population between 2010 and 2014.
The chartering of eight WVU Alumni Association chapters across the globe, expanding the university’s reach to countries like Malaysia, Japan, Thailand, China, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Kuwait, also bears testimony to Tom’s work.
Although retired, Tom remained a true Mountaineer by heart. His passion for life and art inspired his pottery creations. He cherished his daily trips to Starbucks. His warm words, “WVU is in my blood,” will forever echo in our hearts, and his immense contributions to WVU and the state of West Virginia will remain a treasured memory.
Friends and loved ones may pay their respects at the Dering-Henson Funeral Home, 156 Foundry St., Morgantown, WV 26505, from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20.
Funeral services will take place at the funeral home at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, with Rudolph P. Almasy officiating. Interment will follow at the East Oak Grove Cemetery, Morgantown.
Dering-Henson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences:
www.dering-henson.com
