New UC Board of Trustees Members Announced
The University of Charleston Board of Trustees has elected five new members to serve three-year terms. Fonda Elliot and Nettie Horne return to the Board after completing earlier terms in 2022, joining Dickie Jamieson, Paul Smith, and Louis Weisberg as the other new members.
“The University of Charleston has long benefitted from its exceptional Board of Trustees,” said UC President Marty Roth. “They are deeply committed to the University’s success. Their advisory, network, and philanthropic support help us achieve our mission to educate every student for a life of productive work, enlightened living, and community involvement. Our newest members will add even more expertise and diversity to our outstanding Board.”
Fonda Elliot is deeply committed to the Charleston area, serving in many capacities including as a Charleston Area Medical Center Trustee, Charleston Area Alliance Board member, and Director of the Elliot Family Foundation. She was co-owner of American Medical Facilities Management (AMFM) which operated 19 skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers throughout West Virginia. Fonda and her husband John have been longtime UC supporters, contributing to many projects, most recently the Welch Athletic Complex that includes the Elliot lacrosse and soccer field. She previously served on the UC Board of Trustees’ Executive and Governance committees.
Nettie Horne is an alumnus of UC, Class of ’73. A native West Virginian, Nettie earned her J.D. from Harvard Law School and was admitted to the practice of law in both New York and the District of Columbia. During her career, Nettie served as inside counsel at IBM, Loral, and Lockheed Martin. Nettie has been a dedicated supporter of the University as a professor, trustee, and donor. Her recent financial contributions to the institution have facilitated campus renovations including the nursing simulation station in Riggleman Hall and the football locker room renovation at UC Stadium. Nettie previously served on the UC Board of Trustee’s Governance and Quality committees.
Dickinson Chilton Jamieson (Dickie) is currently the owner of Dickie Chilton Interiors in Ann Arbor, MI where she resides. Her experience in interior design, sales, and marketing afforded her a management role previously for Dorothy Draper & Co., Inc. in White Sulphur, WV for designer Carlton Varney. While residing in Lewisburg, WV for many years, Dickie was actively involved in the community serving on the board of directors for the Greenbrier Valley Theatre as well as serving as chair fundraiser for the Lewisburg Home and Garden Tour, Carnegie Hall, and the New Greenbrier Pre-School. Dickie most recently supported UC along with her family by establishing the Nelle Ratrie Chilton Welcome Admissions Center.
Paul Smith is a chef and business owner, including multiple restaurants in Charleston, West Virginia’s capital: 1010 Bridge Restaurant & Catering, Barkadas, and The Pitch Sports Bar & Grill. He has worked around the country, from The Ritz Carlton Resort in Naples, Florida, to the world-renowned Biltmore Estates in Asheville, North Carolina, to The Windsor Club in Vero Beach, Florida. Upon returning to Charleston, he was the Executive Chef at UC. Chef Paul was named a 2023 Finalist for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef of The Southeast Award and is the first West Virginia chef to receive that honor.
Louis Weisberg is President and CEO of Service Wire, a family-owned wire and cable manufacturer, where he is responsible for championing three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities that produce high-quality products. Louis is an active member of many professional organizations, including the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the International Cable Federation (ICF). He serves on several local boards including Discover the Real West Virginia and the Truist Community Advisory Board. In 2019, he was the recipient of the Wire and Cable Manufacturers Alliance’s Distinguished Career Award. Louis, his family, and Service Wire have been ardent supporters of education in West Virginia.