VIENNA - With more than three decades devoted to public service, Joanne Tomblin, wife of Acting Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, thanked a local woman's club for its volunteer service and encouraged more action among citizens.
Tomblin addressed more than 60 women at the Parkersburg Country Club Tuesday during a GFWC Parkersburg Woman's Club luncheon. The acting first lady used the engagement to laud the group for its commitment to volunteerism while also pushing for changes in education.
She said community service and volunteerism is both good for the community and good for business.
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Tomblin thanked a local woman’s club for its volunteer service and encouraged more action among cit
"It creates a strong community and keeps established businesses in the area to attract new businesses," Tomblin said.
Tomblin, who was president of the Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College for more than a decade, also advocated getting students on the right track for education.
"It's not all about getting your degree," she said.
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Acting first lady of West Virginia Joanne Tomblin addresses the GFWC Parkersburg Woman’s Club luncheon at the Parkersburg Country Club Tuesday.
Tomblin said the world is full of good-paying jobs that do not require a college degree, but still require specialized skills or training. She noted a high school diploma won't go far in the job market.
"We need to get kids in a streamlined track for a career as early as junior high," she said.
The first lady also praised the woman's club for its volunteer service, describing it as the glue that holds communities together.
For individuals involved in community services, Tomblin said volunteerism creates empowerment, can help combat depression and encourages others to serve.
"You are showing friends, family and citizens what they can do," she said.
