A GIRLS STATE GIRL

Rosemary Thomas

Director, WV Rhododendron Girls State and President, Chowan University

SUPERPOWER: Team building

Rosemary Thomas, who last year became the first female president in Chowan University’s 175-year history, “The whole notion of team building is that none of us are in this alone,” she says. “I believe life is a team sport. I’m a prime example of someone for whom it takes a village: I was blessed with wonderful parents but also what I would consider surrogate families all around me.” It was the people Thomas has had on her team over the years—mentors, family, friends, and colleagues—who helped her find her place in life, and many of those relationships have stemmed from her time at Rhododendron Girls State, the West Virginia department of the national American Legion Auxiliary citizenship and leadership program.

“Next year will be my 40th anniversary of being part of that program, and now I’m the director! When I went in ’85, I just fell in love with the concept. I was always interested in government, involved in politics, and just to see it unfolding within the confines of a group of peers was amazing. My participation in Girls State really helped me to see clearly that you always have to do your best.” Part of what “best” means for Thomas is encouraging connections, being generous with her time and energy in those relationships, and not being afraid to reach out to them for help when she needs to while never taking them for granted. It’s also understanding that people want to help when they can.

“If I have issues that I need to deal with, I need to take full advantage of the networks that I have. Calling upon those resources is critically important and has been a key factor within my team building and the life I have had the privilege of living.” —TWQ

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Since 2014 WV Living magazine has been honoring West Virginia Wonder Women, amazing women who are raising the bar in their communities, serving as beacons of light in their industries, and forcing change for the greater good. WV Living is proud to celebrate these Appalachian mothers, millennials, and mavens proving that in a time full of uncertainty, divisiveness, and hate, love for one another is all we really need. No need for bulletproof bracelets or a golden lasso of truth—these women are creating a better West Virginia with their can-do attitudes and Mountain State spirit.