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Wood signs multi-year contract with D&E

Wood

ELKINS — Davis & Elkins College President Chris A. Wood has agreed to a multi-year contract extension, Board of Trustees Chair Bill Nuttall announced this week. Nuttall explained that the decision is a key element in maintaining the stability that is vital in small liberal arts colleges.

The announcement trails the College’s successful completion of a 10-year $100 million campaign, which Wood led to top the mark at $101,422,304.

“Over the past 24 months, Chris guided the College to the completion of an unprecedented $100 million ‘Secure the Future’ campaign,” Nuttall said. “Under his leadership, and with a very capable management team, he has created a vibrant culture.”

Since Wood’s arrival as the 15th president in August 2016, D&E has experienced an increase in giving, formed new community partnerships, built a foundation for a five-year strategic plan, grown academic offerings, initiated numerous projects to improve campus infrastructure and established two local sororities. Last spring, Wood hosted meetings with students to gain their input on improving campus experiences and facilities.

“These are exciting days for Davis & Elkins College,” Wood said. “Lisa and I are so pleased to have become a part of the D&E family and the community of Elkins. This multi-year contract extension will enable us to continue moving forward to implement our new strategic plan. I am grateful to the Board of Trustees for their continuing confidence in me and support of my leadership.”

This fall, D&E will unveil on a new initiative, Leading the Way, which underscores the College’s character of distinction and excellence.

A native of Huntington, Wood has focused his career on higher education and ministry. Prior to coming to D&E, Wood was vice president for advancement at Wesley College in Dover, Del. He also has worked as vice president for advancement at the University of Mount Olive in Mount Olive, North Carolina, executive director of Mission West Virginia Inc., and, as an ordained United Methodist pastor, served congregations in Illinois and Maryland. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and graduated magna cum laude from West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon. He also has completed additional graduate study at the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy.

Wood, his wife, Lisa Messinger Wood, and their two daughters, Lacey and Lexi, along with their miniature schnauzers, Hallie and Henry, reside at Hearthstone, the Davis & Elkins College president’s home.

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