In Reynolds Hall, almost every learning space, student fellowship and research center is named for a donor who gave their time and money to help Chambers College students go further. In fact, Reynolds Hall itself is named for two of those donors.

The Denton Fellowship, however, is named not for the givers, but for a professor who had a tremendous impact on them.

That professor was Jim Denton, the founder of the Chambers College’s Management Information Systems program.

The donors were WVU alumni Chad and Laura Leonard, who established the fellowship in 2023 to allow MIS students to take a paid leadership positions with Data Driven WV, one of the Chambers College’s research and outreach centers.

One of those students is Leonardo Cuellar Gold, whose academic experience and professional path has been transformed by the Denton Fellowship.

Gold’s transformation was made possible by the Leonards’ generosity, and their generosity was inspired by the memory of Jim Denton. Now, Gold and Chad Leonard are collaborating to examine the before and after of a single gift, and the life-changing impact the Chambers community has on current students.

Chad Leonard

When my wife and I decided to give back to West Virginia University, it wasn’t just about making a donation – it was about paying forward the incredible experiences and opportunities that shaped our lives.

WVU is more than just my alma mater; it’s the place that gave me the foundation to build a successful career and a strong network of mentors and friends. It’s where I learned the value of hard work, perseverance and community.

I worked at what is now the Chambers College for four years while earning my undergraduate degree. That experience was invaluable – not only did it help financially, but it also introduced me to an incredible network of faculty, staff and mentors who guided me along the way. I saw firsthand the dedication of educators who weren’t just teaching lessons, but shaping futures. The relationships I built during that time helped me transition into my career and still influence me today as a leader in the software industry.

One such relationship was with Dr. Denton, one of the founding members of the Management Information Systems program at WVU. His approach to instruction, hands-on leadership and passion for student success stick with me to this day. He was one of the first professors to show me how academic experiences extend beyond technical skills into developing a mindset of problem-solving, collaboration and innovation.

Those lessons carried me through every stage of my career, from entry-level roles to my current leadership position. Without the education and mentorship I received at WVU, I wouldn’t be where I am today. This style of education remains on full display at the Chambers College through programs such as Data Driven WV.

Philanthropy has always been important to me and my wife, but supporting WVU holds a special place in our hearts. We believe in the power of education to transform lives, just as it transformed ours.

By giving back, we hope to provide students with opportunities that go beyond the four walls of the university. Whether it’s scholarships, funding for programs, or mentorship initiatives, every contribution makes a difference in shaping the next generation of Mountaineers.

Beyond personal fulfillment, investing in WVU strengthens the university’s legacy and impact. When alumni give back, they create a ripple effect – helping students, enhancing programs and improving the surrounding community. 

A strong WVU benefits not only its students, but also the industries they enter and the communities they serve.

For me, giving back is not just about gratitude; it’s about responsibility. Just like Dr. Denton had a lasting impact on me and so many other students at WVU, giving back helps to ensure that future students have the same – if not greater – opportunities than me.

I’m proud to be part of this ongoing cycle of success, and I hope to inspire other alumni to do the same.

Leonardo Cuellar Gold

Management Information Systems major
Data Driven WV Denton Fellow

Before joining Data Driven WV and becoming a Denton Fellow, I had a passion for technology and a drive to build impactful solutions – but I didn't yet realize just how much alumni support could amplify that passion.  

Thanks to generous donors like Chad Leonard, I’m not merely working on projects; I’m consistently building skills, exploring new industries and making meaningful contributions, all while doing something I genuinely love.

The Denton Fellowship at Data Driven WV has transformed my college experience and career, giving me the freedom and resources to dive deeper into my interests. Instead of merely coding or solving problems for a grade, I’m creating real-world solutions with direct impact.

This is fulfilling, practical work that has showed me the powerful difference technology can make.

I’ve gained exposure to various industries including NGOs and government, retail (e-commerce), banking, telecommunications and hospitality. Through these diverse experiences, I’ve developed competencies in automation, batch processing, web application development, cloud services, cybersecurity, scripting, research, data analytics and geospatial analysis.

Because of the skills and guidance I gained from the fellowship, I have successfully secured internships with IBM, PwC and, next summer, West Monroe, where I can further apply my experience, leadership and problem-solving skills in a professional environment.

The faculty mentors in the program have been outstanding, helping me navigate challenges and providing insights that proved invaluable during internships. I’ve found myself able to sidestep common pitfalls because I’ve already faced and overcome similar issues within the supportive environment of Data Driven WV.

Alumni support has provided me with incredible mentorship opportunities, which have dramatically accelerated my personal and professional growth. Their generosity doesn’t just alleviate financial pressures; it has empowered me to build an expansive skillset and network, preparing me for future success.

Being part of this larger cycle – where alumni like Chad Leonard actively invest in students like me – is incredibly inspiring.

Additionally, alumni frequently visit campus, generously offering their valuable time and career advice, reinforcing their commitment beyond just financial contributions. This has motivated me to continue this tradition, paying forward the support I've received to future generations of Mountaineers.

Through the Denton Fellowship and Data Driven WV, I've learned the true meaning of impactful and practical education. I'm genuinely excited about the future and deeply grateful for the alumni who believe in the transformative power of education and mentorship at WVU.