James D. Mefford

James “Jim” Mefford came to WKU in 1977, to pursue a degree in computer science and mathematics. After graduating with his Bachelors of Science in 1981, Jim earned his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Theological Seminary. He used both degrees at various times throughout his career, showing the mind he had for numbers and math, as well as the heart he had for serving the Lord. He was always serving a local church in some capacity, even as he worked at different software companies. He also spent four years serving as a full-time pastor at Bay Marin Community Church in Novato, California.

Jim was a faithful husband, an attentive father, as well as a loving son and brother. He and his parents often brought Jim’s children to the Hill to spend time at the student center and enjoy basketball games. Hilltopper-themed clothes and toys were present in their home at all times. His middle daughter, Ashley, attended WKU as a pre-medical student, becoming the third generation of Meffords to graduate from WKU.

Jim passed away on May 20, 2020. To honor his memory, the James D. Mefford Scholarship Fund was established. The fund assists WKU students who are majoring in the fields of math and computer science. Through this fund, Jim’s legacy lives on as students are helped in perpetuity.