H . Toney Stroud
In-House Counsel , Encova Insurance
Photo by Mike Powers / Marshall University .
EMILY RICE
AS A SELF-PROCLAIMED nontraditional law student , Toney Stroud , in-house counsel at Encova Insurance , enrolled in law school when he was 31 years old .
A Marshall University graduate with a bachelor ’ s degree in business information systems , Stroud worked as a claim ’ s adjuster for several years until he made the decision to begin law school at the West Virginia University ( WVU ) College of Law in 1995 . A first-generation college student , his parents , while loving and supportive , always instilled a work ethic in he and his brother that would propel his successful career in law . While it was challenging to return to study mode after
his hiatus from higher education , Stroud treated his education like one would a job .
“ I worked from 8 to 5 and tried to relax and do things that I enjoyed in the evening ,” he says . “ I have always enjoyed learning , and once I got into the groove , I loved my law school experience .”
After earning his Juris Doctor in 1998 , Stroud ’ s first job in the field was as an associate with Steptoe & Johnson PLLC in Charleston , WV . He learned , among many lessons , the importance of hard work when he was named partner at Steptoe & Johnson one year ahead of schedule .
In 2006 , a challenge would present itself in the form of an opportunity . Steptoe &
Johnson asked Stroud to move to Columbus , Ohio , to open an office for the firm .
“ I had only lived in West Virginia up to that point and the thought of moving to a city the size of West Virginia was intimidating ,” he recalls . “ However , from this experience I learned it is okay to take risks and get out of your comfort zone . Too many times I feel people get comfortable and miss opportunities because of the fear of the unknown . This experience gave me confidence and helped me develop leadership skills and confidence to continue to grow in my career .”
In 2013 , Stroud left private practice and joined what is now known as Encova Insurance as in-house counsel .
“ My wife , Cassie , and I were ecstatic when we got the opportunity to move back to West Virginia ,” he says . “ We had just adopted our two daughters and quickly decided West Virginia was the place to raise our children . This state is home , and I love the people and the chance to volunteer and get involved . I find West Virginia to be peaceful , and I love the outdoors . We have a beautiful state with good , hard-working people . The proximity to larger cities is also appealing to me . If the urge hits , it is only a three or four-hour drive to a larger area .”
In his role at Encova Insurance , Stroud manages outside counsel and oversees the company ’ s outside litigation . He mediates cases across the country and provides legal support to the claims and underwriting departments . He also personally litigates the state ’ s black lung cases .
“ My current position is challenging
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE