Executive Vice President , West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians
Gerry Stover
Executive Vice President , West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians
JEAN HARDIMAN
When Gerry Stover served as the executive director of the Lincoln County Primary Care Center , he had his first chance to make a lasting impact on rural health care in West Virginia . A key goal was to transition the center from leasing its facility to owning it , a move to solidify its presence in the community . Through a fundraising campaign and a commitment to daily progress , Stover brought the vision to life .
“ My approach was simple but effective : I committed to doing one thing every day that would bring us closer to securing a new facility ,” Stover says . “ The experience profoundly shaped my career , showing me how dedication and community engagement can lead to meaningful , lasting impact .”
Today , as executive vice president of the West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians , Stover channels the same dedication into advocating for family medicine .
“ Research consistently demonstrates that patients who establish a personal relationship with a family physician enjoy longer , healthier and more productive lives ,” he explains .
His advocacy involves engaging policymakers , stakeholders and the public to highlight the crucial role family physicians play in improving health .
Photo by Alison Vaughn .
Mentoring is another key part of his role , informed by his diverse and challenging career path . In 1977 , Stover graduated from Marshall University with a bachelor ’ s degree in business administration , focusing on finance and business law .
He began his career as a Marine infantry officer , gaining a strong sense of duty and leadership . Stover later transitioned to the Air National Guard as a hospital administrator and joined the Air Force Reserve as an emergency preparedness liaison officer . Working with FEMA on disaster response initiatives , he rose to the rank of colonel and earned the Meritorious Service
Medal for efforts after September 11 , 2001 , and other critical operations .
His introduction to family medicine came during his graduate studies in information systems at Marshall University . As assistant administrator at John Marshall Medical Services , Stover met Dr . Robert Walker , a distinguished family physician who became a mentor .
“ His mentorship instilled in me a passion for advancing family medicine and supporting physicians in their mission to provide holistic , accessible care ,” Stover says .
He remains committed to fostering a supportive environment for family
90 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE