Royce J. Watts

Royce J. Watts entered the United States Army in 1946. He served with the 88th Infantry Division and later with the Trieste Garrison. Watts was a recipient of numerous awards and decorations, including the United States Presidential Unit Citation, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, and the Silver Star in 1951. He retired as a full Colonel in 1989. Following three and one-half years with the State of West Virginia Worker's Compensation Fund (July 1957-January 1961) as actuary and director of the Actuarial-Statistical Group, he returned to WVU where he continued to serve. During almost 50 years with WVU, Watts served in numerous teaching and administrative assignments. He served as the associate dean-administration of the Statler College. He was a member and served as assistant secretary-treasurer or secretary-treasurer of the WVCMI since 1980. Watts received numerous awards for his service to WVU, the Mineral Resources Alumni (Mining and Petroleum Engineering) Chapter of WVU, and the West Virginia coal industry through the WVCMI. These awards include induction into the Order of the Lamp for service to the College of Mineral and Energy Resources and the Mineral Resources Alumni Chapter. In 1997 he was recognized as a Distinguished West Virginian by Governor Cecil H. Underwood for his contribution to the continuing education of mining professionals. In 2005, the West Virginia Coal Mining Institute endowed WVU's Mining and Petroleum and Natural Gas Museum and requested that it be renamed The Royce J. and Caroline B. Watts Museum, "for two individuals who have tirelessly supported its mission through both financial support and other resources on behalf of the museum for more than two decades." The purpose of the museum is to preserve and promote the social, cultural and technological history of the coal, oil and gas industries of the State of West Virginia through the collection, preservation, research, and exhibition of tangible objects relevant to the industries. In 2007, Watts was recognized with the Erskin Ramsey Gold Medal by the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineers (AIME) "for his dedication to the best interests of the coal mining industry, the University and its students and a champion for the preservation of our mining heritage." In the fall of 2007, Watts was named Most Loyal Faculty Mountaineer for his "consistent and dedicated service to WVU since 1955." This award is given to a faculty member who exemplifies faithfulness to the ideals and goals of WVU and support for the University.