Dr. James S. Wilson
Dr. James S. WilsonWest Virginia Board of Education

Meet Dr. James S. Wilson 

For six years, Dr. James S. Wilson has served as a member of the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE). He said his favorite part of being involved with the WVBE has been making connections within the state’s education community.

“(I enjoy) being able to interact with teachers, administrators, and Department of Education staff and being able to observe how talented and bright our students are. (As a board member), we provide our youth with tools that will allow them to succeed in whatever they wish to do.”

A proud member of the Glen Dale community, Dr. Wilson said he spent 20 years on the Marshall County Board of Education as President for several terms. Additionally, he served on the executive board of the West Virginia School Building Authority becoming its President before being elected to the Board of Directors of the WVU Alumni Association and eventually serving as its President in the year 2000. In 2015, Dr. Wilson was appointed to the WVBE by Governor Tomblin.

“Over that time, I observed many changes in my profession and the profession of education. I come from a family of educators, so it seemed natural for me to serve on the board.”

Dr. Wilson said he is proud to serve on such a diverse state board that makes a lasting impact on the education system in West Virginia.

“As an individual, a board member has no power. Only by working with other board members to obtain a majority, and hopefully consensus, can an individual have influence. Our board has members that are very diverse: educators, health professionals, business folks, an entrepreneur, parents and grandparents. This helps give us a perspective that aids in our decisions.”

Getting To Know Board Member Wilson

  • Academic Background:  Mr. Wilson attended Sanford Grade School, Central Grade School, and Moundsville Junior and High School. He attended West Virginia University for both his undergraduate degree and his D.D.S. degree. 

  • Professional Background: Dr. Wilson had a dental practice which spanned nearly 50 years. Additionally, he served on the Marshall County Board of Education, the West Virginia School Building Authority and was elected to the Board of Directors for the WVU Alumni Association before being appointed as a WVBE member in 2015. 

  • Favorite Subject(s): History of all kinds.
  • Favorite Hobbies: Golf, travel and reading in addition to spending time with his wife of 54 years, Ann, and their three children and eight grandchildren.