organization were upheld and stayed true to the Benedum ’ s original intentions for the foundation .
“ A highly esteemed group of trustees has guided the Benedum Foundation since the 1960s , including three West Virginia governors , five university presidents , a U . S . senator , a federal judge and many captains of industry ,” says Giovannitti . “ The Benedum Foundation staff and trustees take seriously the importance of meeting the moment of needs and opportunities .”
The trustees are both experienced and highly esteemed individuals who are respected for their expertise and the way they lead their lives .
“ The Benedum Board of Trustees are actively engaged citizens who exemplify a life of service to others . The trustees have a pulse on the needs of their community and state so they can thoughtfully present both community needs and opportunities ,” says Kim Tieman , vice president and program director of the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation . “ The foundation uses data and current societal trends to explore the vexing issues that face our states . Benedum strives to promote locally derived solutions and supports evidenced-based or promising practices to impact policy and sustainable projects .”
The board is not only responsible for distributing the funds in the most impactful way , but it also stewards the foundation ’ s endowment .
“ While most people focus on the grants we make , maintaining and growing the endowment is a major focus of the trustees ,” says Lloyd Jackson , senior trustee . “ We have retained the services of an outside investment firm , and
our investment committee regularly meets with that firm to review our investment performance and suggest any changes we perceive necessary . All that information is communicated to the entire board , and their opinions and advice are considered as well . The health of our endowment is of prime importance to everyone at the foundation , and the time committed to that effort is considerable .”
The importance of the financial security of the foundation is just as important as the causes it supports . With the proper foresight and care , the impact of the organization can continue for years to come .
In addition to the qualified and passionate board of trustees , the foundation has nine employees dedicated to ensuring the organization is run efficiently .
“ I always try to honor the wishes of the people who generously thought beyond themselves to care for their fellow citizens ,” says Tieman . “ When the Benedums created this foundation , they entrusted their values , beliefs and wishes would be upheld . We are honored to be the stewards to carry out their wishes . We have excerpts of Mr . Benedum ’ s will and codicil covering the main wall in our conference room so his words can literally and figuratively guide our discussions and decisions as we deliberate on what efforts they would want us to support .”
The Benedum Foundation has been instrumental in forging new roads for West Virginia and helping promote growth and development across the state . With a clear guiding star and skillful leaders , the Benedum Foundation ’ s 80 years have changed the lives of many and will continue to do so long into the future . •
2024
STAFF AND TRUSTEES
WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM SUMMER 2024 39