CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia Governor Jim Justice recently made headlines by appointing his wife, Cathy Justice, to the West Virginia State Board of Education shortly after winning a closely contested U.S. Senate election against his Democratic rival.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, following a letter submitted to the Secretary of State’s office a day earlier.
“She will excel in this role,” Governor Justice stated confidently. “Cathy has an immense passion for helping children.”
Cathy, aged 71, will complete a nine-year term on the board, succeeding Dr. Daniel Snavely, a cardiologist from Huntington, whose tenure has recently concluded. Initially uncertain about taking on the role, Cathy has reportedly become excited and is now eager to fulfill her responsibilities.
When questioned about potential nepotism in the appointment, Gov. Justice defended his wife’s qualifications vigorously. “It’s hard to believe anyone could think Cathy lacks the necessary credentials for this position,” he remarked.
The governor highlighted Cathy Justice’s impressive background, which includes a degree in secondary education from Marshall University and her work in the state’s Communities In Schools initiative. As first lady, she played a crucial role in launching this nonprofit aimed at preventing school dropouts in 2018, successfully expanding its reach to 285 schools across all 55 counties in West Virginia, making it unique in the United States for its comprehensive implementation.
Cathy has also led the Friends With Paws initiative, which provides certified therapy dogs in schools to support and comfort students; over 40 dogs have been placed in various schools statewide.
“I genuinely believe there’s no one better qualified for this role than Cathy,” Justice added at the press conference.
Her experiences include substituting in Raleigh County schools and participating in an elementary school program associated with a local church. Additionally, she has a background in business, having been the president of Comer Electric, Inc., a company started by her parents. She also spent five years on the board of directors for First National Bank in Ronceverte.
This appointment echoes a similar decision made in 2007 when former Democratic Governor Joe Manchin appointed his wife, Gayle Manchin, to the state school board. Gayle, who previously taught in Marion County public schools, eventually became the board’s president for two years.
Starting in January, Governor Justice will head to Washington, D.C., to begin a six-year term in the Senate after decisively defeating Democrat Glenn Elliott.
As a businessman with a family portfolio that includes numerous companies and the renowned resort The Greenbrier, Justice has been known for his philanthropic actions, including donating his annual salary of $150,000 as governor to the Communities In Schools program.