Jessica Silber
Development Director, West Virginia Symphony Orchestra
Written by Sabrina McClure Photos by Tracy A. Toler Photography
Silber on the Alum Cave Trail at Audra State Park.
For Jessica Silber, development director at West Virginia Symphony Orchestra( WVSO), giving back to the community was something her parents, Rick and Kathy, instilled in her from an early age.“ My parents raised my brothers, Aaron and Troy, and me with a strong sense of duty to others,” says Silber.
One of her earliest memories is that of her and her mother visiting nursing homes in the area when she was just 5 years old.
Born and raised in Clendenin, WV, Silber was also introduced to the Charleston area’ s art scene. She and her family attended Symphony Sunday with the WVSO and hit Mountain Stage on Sunday nights.
Combining her love of art and a desire to give back, at just 8 years old, Silber hand drew flyers advertising house and pet-sitting services and delivered those to her neighbors.
“ I was booked all summer and didn’ t lose a single pet or plant,” says Silber.
Her first professional position was with the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals where she worked for 12 years. It was there that she developed a personal mission for her life: no matter her title, her work should measurably improve life for her community.
In her current role, she helps develop the strategy and relationships that support the overall mission of the orchestra through individual giving, the annual fund and endowment, corporate partnerships and grants.
“ The impact of the WVSO is tangible,” Silber says.“ Thousands of students experience our educational programs each year, families make memories at concerts and musicians build careers here. The WVSO makes life richer for West Virginians.”
Silber recognizes the influence and mentorship of those in her life, from her parents and her girl tribe to her co-workers and supervisors.
“ Joe Tackett, WVSO president, took a chance on me and has been a steady mentor,” she says.“ He champions women in the workplace and helps people operate within their strengths.”
Recognizing the support of the symphony’ s board of directors, Silber gives credit for any success.
“ I’ m fortunate to have such a committed board assisting the organization,” she says.“ Andy Teeter, development committee chair, has been a generous mentor and kind friend. Andy embodies servant leadership and gives back in so many ways. His mentorship has been transformational for me as a professional.”
Outside of work, much of her free time is spent volunteering with many local nonprofit organizations such as Read Aloud WV, Mountaineer Food Bank, United Way of Central West Virginia, Hope for Appalachia, Faith in Action of the Greater Kanawha Valley and Keep Your Faith Corporation.
Currently, Silber serves as the fellowship chair on the Rotary Club of Charleston’ s board of directors, where she drives membership and helps build relationships among members. She is a committee member with the Women for Economic and Leadership Development Charleston Chapter, a group that supports professional women in all industries.
Silber is also currently a volunteer reader with Read Aloud WV, where she reads to second grade students at Elk Elementary Center. She is an active member with Up Next Charlie West as well, where she has been able to connect with other organizations and professionals in the community.
Silber is a volunteer at Charleston Urban Works and an active member at Randolph Street Baptist Church. In addition to working at the WVSO, Silber also volunteers her time and talents as a first soprano chorus member.
Silber is an avid writer but rarely shares her work with others. She hopes to be courageous enough to publish her work someday. Growing up, she was sure she’ d move to New York and become a journalist but ultimately chose to stay in West Virginia.
“ I’ m grateful West Virginia held onto me while still giving me the freedom to see the world and come home to the life I love,” says Silber. •
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ice cream:
Maple Creemees in Vermont
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Greater Lewisburg Area color:
French Blue
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Modern
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