Gousha Memorial Endowment for Veterans

Dr. Richard Paul Gousha (1923-2019) was a World War II veteran and distinguished educator. At the age of 19, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in the 90^th Infantry Division and fought in the battle for Utah Beach. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Achievement for his service in the campaign to cross the Rhine River.

After the war, Gousha completed his undergraduate degree in history, utilizing the original GI Bill. He started his education career at the age of 24, becoming a high school teacher, and the next year became a superintendent of schools.  He received both his masters and doctorate in educational administration.  Over his 50-year career in public education, spanning schools in Ohio, Indiana, Delaware and Wisconsin, Gousha held positions of superintendent, state superintendent, big city superintendent, dean of the school of education, and professor.  He retired at age 75 as a professor emeritus.

This endowment supports the Veterans Resources Center Programs at West Valley College.