SALEM, W.Va. – Salem University Athletics has announced the complete Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing a historic women's basketball team, one of the most accomplished men's basketball players in program history, and a trailblazer in women's athletics, officiating, and coaching.
The Salem University Athletics Hall of Fame honors former student-athletes, coaches, teams, administrators, and supporters whose achievements and contributions have made a lasting impact on Tiger athletics.
The Class of 2026 will be formally honored at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony as part of Homecoming festivities on October 9 inside the Benedum Library.
1995-96 Women's Basketball Team
One of the most successful teams in Salem women's basketball history, the 1995-96 squad earned its place in the Hall of Fame following a remarkable season that elevated the program to national prominence.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Tammy Bisenthal, the Tigers captured their second consecutive West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) Championship and finished the season with a 27-4 overall record. Prior to the start of conference play, the team also posted a perfect 10-0 record during an exhibition tour in Japan.
The 1995-96 team became the first women's basketball program in Salem history to advance to the NCAA Division II Sweet 16, marking a major milestone for the university.
Led by WVIAC Player of the Year and All-American Charlotte Powell, the Tigers set numerous program records, including marks for scoring, wins, and multiple statistical categories that stood for years as standards of excellence.
Their championship run, national tournament success, and record-breaking season established the 1995-96 squad as one of the most decorated teams in Salem Athletics history.
Bob Schneider – Men's Basketball (1964–66)
Bob Schneider remains one of the most productive and influential players in Salem men's basketball history, earning his place in the Hall of Fame through a standout playing career and decades of coaching and player development.
A standout at Victory High School in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Schneider began his collegiate career at West Virginia University before transferring to Salem. In two seasons as a Tiger, he averaged a double-double in points and rebounds and quickly became one of the program's most dominant players.
Schneider earned All-WVIAC honors in 1966 and was also named to the All-WVIAC Tournament Team. Serving as team captain during his senior season, he finished his Salem career with 1,060 points and 680 rebounds.
Following his playing career, Schneider transitioned into coaching at both the collegiate and high school levels, including stops at Virginia Tech and California Polytechnic State University, as well as Doddridge County High School and Washington Irving High School. He also built a successful basketball skill development business, continuing to impact athletes long after his playing days.
Mary Jane Curran Schafer – Women's Basketball / Official (1968–72)
Mary Jane Curran Schafer is recognized for a lifelong commitment to athletics as a student-athlete, official, and coach, leaving a lasting impact on sports throughout West Virginia and Ohio.
After her time at Salem from 1968–72, Schafer built a distinguished career as an official. Among her most notable accomplishments was officiating the first-ever women's basketball game held at the WVU Coliseum on January 16th, 1974, a landmark moment in the growth of women's athletics in the state.
She went on to officiate both high school and collegiate basketball across West Virginia and Ohio, earning respect for her professionalism, knowledge of the game, and consistency on the court.
In addition to officiating, Schafer dedicated many years to coaching volleyball, track and field, softball, and women's basketball, influencing countless student-athletes through her leadership and mentorship.
Her combined contributions as a coach and official helped advance opportunities for women in athletics and strengthened the growth of multiple sports across the region.
The Salem University Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026 will be formally inducted and honored during Homecoming festivities on October 9 at the Benedum Library, celebrating their achievements, contributions, and lasting impact on Tiger Athletics.
